Part of our 60-Second Read Series!
What Is a Boundary Dispute?
A boundary dispute occurs when neighbouring property owners disagree about the location, width, direction, or rights over their shared boundary line.
These disputes are among the most common types of neighbourly conflict, but they don’t always need to escalate into costly legal battles.
How Can I Avoid a Boundary Dispute?
If you find yourself involved in a boundary dispute, the first step should be to try resolving the issue informally by discussing it directly with your neighbour.
Many disputes are settled amicably through simple conversation, avoiding the need for professional intervention.
However, if informal talks fail, hiring an experienced Boundary Surveyor is the next best step.
What Will a Boundary Surveyor Do?
Boundary Surveyors provide an impartial, expert opinion on the true position of the boundary.
Their detailed advisory report helps clarify ownership and can be presented to the neighbour to help resolve the dispute.
If your neighbour disagrees with the findings, they may commission their own survey, resulting in two professional reports that help narrow down the disagreement.
In Our Experience, Boundary Surveyors Use Several Key Resources to Assess Boundaries, Including:
- Historic Maps: These can reveal intended boundary lines over time, despite changes in property ownership.
- Ordnance Survey Maps: The UK’s official topographic maps provide authoritative boundary references.
- Aerial Photographs & Satellite Imagery: These offer valuable visual insights into the boundary’s layout and any changes.
- Land Registry Information: Title deeds and plans help confirm legal boundaries, though they may not always be precise on-site.
- Planning Records: Scaled drawings from planning applications can serve as useful benchmarks.
- Historic Photographs: Personal or sales photos showing boundary features can offer crucial evidence.
By following these steps and understanding the role of a Boundary Surveyor, neighbours can resolve disputes efficiently and protect their property rights, without unnecessary conflict or legal expense.
Need Boundary Surveying Advice? Get in touch with us today.
