What is Kadastras?

The Lithuanian Real Property Cadastre — the technical register recording the physical characteristics of land and buildings, integrated with the Nekilnojamojo turto registras.

Key Facts — Kadastras

The Lithuanian kadastras (cadastre) is the official register of the physical attributes of all immovable property: land area, boundaries, building footprint, floor area, construction year, materials, and intended use. It is maintained by the State Enterprise Centre of Registers (Registrų centras) and is fully integrated with the legal ownership register.

Each property has a unique cadastral number (kadastro numeris) which links the technical cadastral record to the legal title record. The number must appear on all official documents relating to the property — purchase deeds, planning applications, mortgage deeds.

The cadastral value (kadastrinė vertė), assessed by the Centre of Registers using a mass valuation model, is the basis for calculating property tax (nekilnojamojo turto mokestis). It is recalculated every five years and is generally below market value.

When a property is built, extended, or demolished, the cadastral record must be updated to reflect the change. A licensed surveyor (kadastrinių matavimų vykdytojas) carries out the cadastral survey and submits the updated data to the Centre of Registers.

Buyers should verify that the cadastral data matches the physical property. Unregistered extensions or demolished buildings that still appear in the kadastras indicate irregularities that will need to be resolved, often at the buyer's cost after purchase.

Common Mistake: Accepting the seller's floor area without checking the kadastras. In Lithuania, advertised areas sometimes include balconies or terraces not counted in the cadastral area. The cadastral area is the legally binding measurement for all official purposes.
Expert Tip: Order a cadastral map extract (kadastro žemėlapio išrašas) showing the boundaries of the land parcel. This identifies any boundary disputes with neighbours that may not be apparent from a visual inspection.
Related terms: NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO REGISTRAS NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO MOKESTIS PIRKIMO-PARDAVIMO SUTARTIS

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cadastral survey cost?

A standard residential cadastral survey costs €200–500 depending on property size and complexity. Prices vary between licensed surveyors — get at least two quotes.

Can I see the cadastral record online?

Yes. The Centre of Registers portal (regia.lt) provides public access to basic cadastral information. A full certified extract costs a small fee.

What is a cadastral file (kadastro byla)?

The kadastro byla is the complete documentation file for a property, including survey drawings, technical specifications, and approval decisions. It is held at the Centre of Registers and can be ordered as part of due diligence.

→ Read our full guide: Guide To Lawyers In Lithuania

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AvökatFinder Editorial Team Legal glossary editors — expat legal terms across 41 European countries

This glossary entry is produced by the AvökatFinder editorial team and reviewed for accuracy. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer in Lithuania for advice specific to your situation.

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