The frame, especially the supporting parts.

A construction term, meaning the outer covering of a building.

A lease of air space above a parcel of land. A structure which is cantilevered or a bridge can be used in such a lease.

A window in a roof or ceiling.

(1) A concrete floor used as a foundation in homes without a basement. (2) Any concrete floor, even if an upper story.

The making of malicious, untrue statements, regarding one’s title or interest in property. The statements must be made to a third party and must cause injury to the party against whom the statements are made.

A method of drilling for oil or gas from adjoining property when surface rights have not been granted. See also: Subsurface Rights; Surface Rights.

See: Traverse Window.

A place between two piers or docks, where a boat is kept.

The angle of a grade as measured from a level surface.

A court having limited jurisdiction to hear cases up to a statutory limit. Cases are heard quickly, attorneys are usually not allowed unless a party to the action, and most cases are decided on fairness rather than fine legal points.

A portable barrier placed along the side of a road to prevent snow from drifting onto the road.

An international organization which is an affiliate of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS. Its members specialize in the field of industrial and office real estate.

The undersurface of an arch, overhang, stairway, or other such part of a building.

See: Indirect Construction Costs.

See: Buyer’s Market.

Wood such as pine or fir, as distinguished from hardwood such as maple or oak. In construction, especially in flooring, softwoods and plywoods have become more popular because they cost less than the traditional hardwood flooring.

The top layer of earth in which plants grow and through which water drains.

A federal program of conservation, under which farmers are paid for not growing crops, or growing non-commercial vegetation, in order to preserve the quality of the soil, as well as to avoid surpluses.

See: Erosion.

A map showing the different types of soil in a given area.