What is an article permanently attached to land or a building known as?

A fixture refers to an article that is permanently attached to land or a building. This definition emphasizes the idea that fixtures are items that are so affixed to the property that their removal would cause damage or alteration to the property. Fixtures are typically considered part of the real estate itself, meaning they are included in the sale or lease of the property unless otherwise specified.

This concept is essential in real estate and appraisal because it helps determine what is considered part of the property’s value. Understanding the nature of fixtures contributes significantly to accurate property assessments, as appraisers must evaluate both the land and the improvements on it, which include these permanently attached items.

In contrast, other terms like improvements generally refer to enhancements made to a property, but they may not necessarily mean the item is permanently attached. Developments can indicate various activities related to property or land improvement, while renovations involve upgrades or remodeling efforts that also do not specifically denote permanent attachment.