Property Line Disputes

What are property line disputes?

Property line disputes occur when two neighbors disagree over the legal boundary between their properties. They typically occur due to perceived or legitimate encroachments of physical elements onto a person’s property. 

The most common types of disputes involve: 

• Fences being built on a neighbor’s property 
• Branches or roots of a tree extending into a neighbor’s lawn
• Arguments over the appropriate placement of sprinklers or drainage systems 
• Disagreements over usage rights granted by an easement 
• Property lines that aren’t well-defined 
• Home extensions encroaching on a neighbor’s property

Disputes over property lines can cause friction between neighbors, sometimes resulting in legal action. In these cases, verification of the legal boundaries must take place through deed analysis, conducting a land survey, or mediation.

Why are property line disputes important to an HOA?

When property disputes occur in a managed community, they often add tension to an otherwise peaceful neighborhood. The HOA may need to step in to help resolve the issue. In these cases, the HOA board should refer to the CC&Rs to determine if community rules on boundary lines apply to the situation. 

Sometimes disputes involve HOA-managed areas. For example, a homeowner may build a fence that encroaches on a shared property line. In these cases, it’s best for the HOA board to work with the homeowner to come to an amicable solution. This avoids a potential legal battle and helps maintain a healthy relationship between the homeowner and the board.

How can you use “property line disputes” in a sentence?

The HOA updated the CC&Rs to clearly define the resolution process for property line disputes in the community.