Typically, when buying a home, you purchase some of the land around it. This is especially the case with detached houses that are out of the city center. You have a legal entitlement to enjoy your property and its land without interference.
For example, you may have a garden or driveway that comes with the property. There is a physical point at which your ownership of the land will begin and end, and this is known as the legal boundary.
Unfortunately, there are occasions when owners do not agree on boundary lines, which can result in disputes. What are some of the more common causes of boundary disputes?
Unclear documentation
Properties and their boundaries can be mapped out in paperwork such as title plans and surveys. It’s essential that these records are accurate and up to date. If one individual has an outdated or inaccurate piece of documentation, this can result in disputes with their neighbors over who owns the land.
Property extensions
Many people purchase properties in the hope of extending them further down the line. For example, a couple may be starting a family and looking to add a new bedroom to their home. An extension, as the name suggests, often involves pushing the edge of the building closer to the boundary line. Problems often arise when extensions encroach on a neighboring property, meaning that the owner loses the enjoyment of their land.
Boundary disputes can arise when the legal ownership of a property and land is not well established. This is why it’s so important to have experienced guidance behind you should you run into any real estate challenges.