Property Boundary Disputes: NYC Townhouses where every inch matters
Property boundary disputes in New York can arise when there is a disagreement over the location of the property line between two or more neighbors. These disputes can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of clear documentation, errors in property surveys, and changes to the land over time.
Causes of property boundary disputes
Lack of clear documentation
One common issue in property boundary disputes is a lack of clear documentation. In many cases, property lines are not clearly marked on the ground, and the location of the boundary may not be well-documented in property deeds or other legal documents. This can lead to confusion and disputes over the exact location of the boundary.
Errors in property surveys
Another common cause of property boundary disputes is errors in property surveys. Surveying errors can occur for a variety of reasons, including human error, outdated equipment, and changes to the land that were not accounted for in the survey. These errors can lead to disputes over the location of the boundary and can be difficult to resolve.
Changes to the land
Changes to the land can also lead to property boundary disputes. For example, if a property owner builds a fence, a wall, or other structure that encroaches on their neighbor's land, this can lead to a dispute over the boundary. Similarly, if a property owner alters the land in some way, such as by filling in a low-lying area or leveling a hill, this can also lead to disputes over the boundary.
Resolving property boundary disputes
In order to resolve property boundary disputes, it is often necessary to hire a surveyor or a land surveyor to determine the exact location of the boundary. This can involve a variety of techniques, including using property deeds and other legal documents, conducting a new survey of the land, and comparing the results of the survey with any existing markers or structures on the property.
Legal assistance for property boundary disputes
If a property boundary dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation, it may be necessary to seek legal assistance. A lawyer can help to review the relevant documents and evidence and can represent the parties in court. In some cases, the court may appoint a neutral surveyor to determine the location of the boundary.
Conclusion
Overall, property boundary disputes can be complex and difficult to resolve. It is important for property owners to be aware of the potential for disputes and to take steps to prevent them from arising. This includes keeping accurate records of property deeds and other legal documents, hiring a surveyor or land surveyor to determine the location of the boundary, and being aware of any changes to the land that may affect the boundary.
