When two properties exist with a thin barrier between them, one or both owners of each may contest where his or her property begins and ends. A property or boundary line dispute may result from such disagreements, which could require a legal entity to step in.
Rocket Mortgage notes that deeds mark property lines, and while reviewing county records and blueprints may solve such issues, several common factors typically cause these disputes, no matter the nature of the property in question.
Encroachment
Encroachment may occur when a property owner builds a feature that crosses a neighbor’s property line. This may involve a variety of structures, including:
- Sheds
- Fences
- Driveways
- Ditches
In some cases, the individual building the feature may not give too much thought to a boundary, especially when a shared space is not clearly marked. One common example is the entrance to an alleyway.
Easement
Individuals buying a property with a narrow boundary line may find their neighbors have the right to use a section of that land without permission due to an easement that occurred earlier in time. An easement is usually legally binding and may require legal action on the part of an individual buying such a property. Easements can protect the land owner and give them control over certain land features such as alleyways, fields and other possible entrances and exits to a property.
While putting up fences, signs and other warnings that mark private property may help landowners feel more confident about their property’s boundaries, they may want to remember that their neighbors may legally challenge such claims.