If you’re facing a property dispute with a neighbor, one way to resolve it is through legal action. But many people dread litigation. Attorney’s fees can be expensive. You will also have to pay legal fees for every court appearance. A mere property line dispute can damage relationships and cause extreme stress and frustration.
It’s common for boundary disputes to happen. But, there are many alternatives to litigation. It’s possible to resolve property line disputes without taking legal action. Here are the causes of boundary disputes and solutions to produce win-win solutions:
Common Causes of Boundary Disputes Between Neighbors
- Inaccurate Deed Description
- A Fence Built Beyond Their Property Line
- Replaced Property Borders
- Overestimation of the Extent of Their Land
Ways To Resolve Boundary Disputes
Do you have bad blood with your neighbor over boundary lines? We have compiled a list of ways to keep a property dispute out of court:
Find Out Where Your Property Lines Are
Property lines are the legal boundaries and points where your property begins and ends. As the name implies, they define what pieces of land you actually own. To avoid encroaching your neighbor’s land, make sure you know where your property starts and ends. This will also prevent someone else from encroaching on your land.
First, you need to check all legal documentation like title deeds. Your property plan might be available in your local land registry. In addition, you may compare your documents and the ones held by your neighbor for any discrepancies.
Be Civil With Your Neighbor
You can still protect your rights as a property owner while staying civil. It’s always best to keep things nice and approach them in a friendly manner. Being rude or mean to your neighbors will delay the resolution of the boundary issue. They will likely respond to you if you use a friendly tone.
Address the Issue Through a Formal Letter
Communication is key when it comes to boundary-line disputes. If your neighbor does not want to talk verbally, try writing them a formal letter. In the letter, state your name and contact details, details about the boundaries, and plans for removing the old fence if necessary. You may also include a copy of your paperwork and official land survey record.
Negotiate
The next method you can do is negotiation. During the informal negotiation process, your goal is to reach an agreement.
To achieve a fruitful conversation, you can negotiate with the help of a property solicitor or any third party. A property solicitor or conveyancer is in-charge of the legal aspects of transferring a property title. They can ease the tension and provide evidence to help your case.
Try Mediation
When all things fail, ask the other party to meet a professional mediator. During a professional mediation session, the neutral third party helps both parties reach a mutually agreeable solution.
In a property line dispute, the mediator could be a lawyer, retired judge, or a professional land surveyor. They will discuss the boundary dispute before going to trial.
This alternative dispute resolution is cheaper than going into court. You can keep costs to a minimum. Mediation is also less time-consuming and mentally taxing than litigation. This way, you can remain civil and continue living next to each other after the dispute.
Consult a Land Surveyor
Physical markers like wood stakes and old fences can sometimes be inaccurate. An updated land survey is more reliable in determining the property lines. A professional land surveyor can help you during a boundary dispute.
If you can’t come to an arrangement with your neighbor, have a land survey performed. They can find the necessary paperwork and redraw a survey of the disputed property. Speak to a local surveyor to avoid finding yourself in court.
Hire Our Professional Surveyors Today
As one of the best surveying companies in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Land Surveyors is committed to your satisfaction. With our help, there’s no need to settle boundary conflicts through litigation. We offer advanced land surveying services like boundary surveys, flood elevation certification surveys, ALTA surveys, and more.
Our team has proven its expertise in efficient and accurate landscape surveying. We only use state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure your project is completed on time. Reach out to us today for any land survey-related questions.
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