If you are like most people, you want to mind your own business and stay out of trouble. However, sometimes trouble comes knocking at your door in the form of a boundary dispute with a neighbor. It can be frustrating when you and your neighbor disagree on where your property lines are, especially when it affects things like fencing or landscaping. Our experienced Pennsylvania real estate litigation attorneys discuss what you can do if you find yourself in this situation.
Types Of Property Line Disputes
There are two different types of property line disputes: encroaching and trespassing. Any property line dispute falls into one of these two types.
Encroaching
Encroachment is defined as one person's use of another person's land without permission. This can be as small as a fence built on your property or as large as a building constructed on your land. For example, they might have a fence that crosses the property line or a shed that sits partially on your land.
Trespassing
Trespassing occurs when someone enters your property without your permission. This could be something as simple as walking across your lawn to get to their house or driving through your driveway to get to the street. It could also be more serious, like hunting or dumping trash on your property.
How To Resolve a Property Dispute
There are a few steps to take toward a resolution. We will start with the most conservation and work our way up to more drastic measures.
Make Sure You Are Correct
The first thing you should do if you find yourself in a boundary dispute is to make sure that you are correct about where your property boundaries are. This may include :
- Looking at your deed,
- surveying your land,
- or consulting with a professional.
Ensuring you know where your property boundaries lay will not only help you feel more confident in your position but will also help avoid any potential legal issues down the road. Once you are confident in your information, you can approach your neighbor and try to reach an agreement.
Opening Discussions With Your Neighbor
If you and your neighbor are on good terms, you may be able to simply talk to them about your disagreement. It is crucial to approach the situation calmly and respectfully. This can be done through a casual conversation or a more formal meeting. You will want to:
- explain your position,
- provide evidence to support your case,
- get the agreement in writing
Having the agreement in writing can help avoid any confusion or misunderstanding in the future.
If An Agreement Cannot Be Reached
If you cannot reach an agreement with your neighbor, your next step may be filing a lawsuit. This is the last resort option, but it may be necessary to protect your interests. Before taking this step, you should consult an experienced real estate litigation attorney to discuss your case and ensure that you take the best course of action. An attorney will be able to advise you of your rights and help you navigate the legal process.
Weisberg Law is Here to Help
No one wants to find themselves in a boundary dispute with their neighbor, but unfortunately, it is a common problem. It is essential to know your options if you find yourself in this situation. Our experienced Pennsylvania real estate litigation attorneys can help you understand your rights and options. We will work with you to determine your case's best course of action.
If you are dealing with a boundary dispute, contact us today for a consultation, and let us help. Visit our website or call us at (610) 550-8042.