Most neighbors can turn into enemies, thanks to a property line dispute. Most of these disputes can last for months or even years and can prove to be quite costly.
Also, these disputes in question, usually occur when one party decides to add new fencing along a shared property line.
While an argument may have to be decided in court, there are 3 principles that property line disputes are usually observed by states.
That said, here are 3 of these principles:
#1: Determine clearly where the fence lines are
Gone are the days when you’d have to visit the courthouse to obtain a copy of the plot map. With the internet available, you can download a copy of your property’s legal description and plot map and can easily find out where the boundaries lie with a laser distance tool. Better still, you can hire the services of a surveyor to give you an accurate understanding of where the property lines are.
#2: Considerations When Erecting a New Fence
When erecting a new fence, since it is a considerable investment to the homeowner, you don’t want to tear it down just because it hasn’t been placed legally. Usually, it’s the governing body that sets the allowable location of fence line but this also depends on deed restrictions or the homeowners association. One should also factor in local utility easements. Of course, not only will the location be decided but also the materials, height, finishes and colors.
#3: The Doctrine of Boundary by Acquiescence
A number of property owners are of the opinion that if a fence has been in place for a number of years, a legal boundary has been accepted by the owners of the property. Yet very differently, the property’s owners can easily reclaim their square footage since they pay the taxes for the full lot. So, remember, just in case you have compensated them for this square footage, you have no legal claim over it.