When your property has a boundary line near another property owner, boundary disputes are likely to happen. Whether it is an issue of land access, where to draw the boundaries, or other issues, you want to resolve these concerns as soon as possible. 

So what are the four types of boundary disputes? If you are facing a boundary dispute of any type and you need guidance, reach out to the team at Very Law. Our law firm can help protect your property rights, resolve disputes, and guide you through this legal process.

Overview of Boundary Disputes

Anytime that you and a neighbor have a conflict of ownership or other boundary problems, knowing what type of boundary dispute you are dealing with can help your case succeed. 

When you understand boundary disputes, it can make it easier to negotiate with your neighbor, make changes to the property line, and settle your claim.

Common Boundary Disputes

Access Disputes

Sometimes, you may need some access to your neighbor's property. For example, you may need to cross the property to access your property, or you may need to use their parking lot for your customers if you are a commercial business. 

This can lead to major access disputes if the proper channels are not used, allowing a dispute to arise. If you claim you need access to their property for your safety or livelihood, your attorney can guide you through this process.

Lot Line Disputes

You and the other property owner may simply be unsure of where your lot begins and their’s ends. When you and your neighbor are amicable, this is a situation that may be resolved quickly. However, tempers can flare when dealing with lot line disputes. Because of this, you may need an attorney on your side to determine how to handle this boundary dispute.

Fence, Landscaping, or Outbuilding Disputes

Whether you are building a fence or installing an outbuilding, you may face trouble due to boundary disputes. The other party may try to claim the fence does not lie on the true lot line, for example. However, you may be aware of exactly where the actual lot line is. This can lead to disputes about what belongs on your property and how outbuildings and fences may be adjusted.

Adverse Possession Claims

In most cases, you are responsible for ensuring that your home or property is inhabited and has all legal information up to date. Adverse possession claims can happen when the owner finds out that a trespasser has stayed in their house long enough to gain legal title for your property. That can chip away at the amount of land you have accrued.

Resolving Boundary Disputes

Resolving a boundary dispute can be complex, depending on the specifics of your dispute. Unless severe issues have already arisen, you and your neighbor may still be on good terms. In these cases, your real estate attorney can act in your best interests by communicating directly with the other property owner and determining the best way to settle your case. 

If alternative dispute resolutions do not work out, your attorney can always turn to litigation as a last resort to settle your case. While litigation is not typically needed, it can help you protect your property as a final measure if no other options work for your case.

Protecting Your Legal Rights

One of the most important things to remember as you navigate a boundary dispute is that you are dealing with an issue with your property. You do not have to accept unfavorable results just to end an argument with a neighbor. 

Your attorney can guide you through a boundary dispute and ensure that your best interests are kept in mind throughout this process. Advocating for fair boundaries is a vital part of life for homeowners, and so having a team that understands local laws and can guide others through alternative dispute resolution can be a major boon.

Boundary Dispute FAQ

What is an example of a boundary dispute?

Boundary disputes occur when you and another party have a disagreement over the size, use, and boundaries of a property. For example, boundary disputes may include lot lines. You and your neighbor may disagree over where the property line runs, leading to disputes that can impact the size of your property.

What is an example of a contested boundary?

When you and another property owner have a dispute about encroaching on one another's property, the boundary line between each property is a contested boundary. That means it is not clear where the property line actually runs. This can be an important part of the dispute to define, as it is the key location of the boundary dispute and is key to resolving that dispute.

What is an example of a definitional border dispute?

A contestant boundary is a disagreement based on exactly where the boundary is, but a definitional border dispute settles disagreements about legal documents. For example, while a fence may mark the specific plot of land you live on, certain older documents, such as the deed, may have conflicting or outdated information. Fortunately, no matter the nature of your boundary dispute, our attorneys are here to help.

Settle a Boundary Dispute with an Attorney 

Dealing with a boundary dispute can be a difficult process, and it can be disheartening to have this type of struggle with your neighbors. However, identifying the specifics of the boundary dispute and having the knowledge to resolve that dispute is vital. 

The process of settling a boundary dispute is not always simple. Fortunately, the attorneys at Very Law can help property owners get answers that get results for their boundary dispute. Our team is here to help you settle a boundary dispute as effectively and quickly as possible, without sacrificing any part of your property. 

When you seek help and guidance for your boundary dispute, do not hesitate to reach out to a real estate attorney who can guide you through this process. To learn more about our services, simply reach out for a consultation. We can be reached by calling us or filling out our online contact form.