Disputes over property lines can arise for a variety of reasons. Whether it started when a neighbor built a fence or another structure on your land, these disagreements can be difficult to resolve. In many cases, a professional boundary survey may be the best way to resolve these issues.

How to Solve Property Boundary Disputes

Understanding the Cause

In some parts of the country, original boundary surveys may have been based on features like trees or certain stones, which can change or disappear over time. Paperwork mistakes when filing deeds might also give two parties competing claims over the same piece of property, which can lead to intense legal disputes. In most cases, however, boundary disputes are simply caused by failing to perform a survey before construction begins.

Resolving a Boundary Dispute Legally 

Firmly establishing ownership of a disputed piece of property can only be done by a judge, so you may have to file a lawsuit and go to court. If a review of the title documents isn’t enough to settle the dispute, the court will likely commission a boundary survey to provide an objective answer to questions of property ownership. Many people choose to negotiate a settlement instead, sparing themselves legal expenses and preserving their relationship with their neighbor.

Acting Quickly

If you believe a new structure is encroaching on your land, take action as soon as possible. Many states give more weight to long-term occupancy than legal rights of ownership, so the encroachment might be allowed to stay if you wait too long. In fact, under Nebraska’s adverse possession law, someone may be able to claim your property if the encroachment has existed unchallenged for ten years or more.

Whether you’re planning a project or involved in a property line dispute, K & M Land Surveying provides the objective data you need. For over 25 years, homeowners in and around Lincoln, NE, have relied on their team for professional service and accurate boundary surveys created with the most advanced technology available. Visit their website for an overview of their surveying services, or call (402) 476-3020 to request a free quote today.