Resolving a boundary dispute with a neighbor

On Behalf of Marcus, Gould & Sussman, LLP | Nov 11, 2025 | Real Estate | Both residential and commercial real estate owners might find themselves facing boundary disputes. Neighbors might disagree about where the boundary falls or start making use of property that does not belong to them. They might even plan permanent improvements, such as a fence or driveway, that cross the boundary line. Their actions could impact property values and an owner’s use of their own land. How can real estate owners protect themselves from incursions and boundary disputes? A thorough review can be helpful In some cases, the details of a legal description can quickly help resolve a boundary dispute. When comparing the description of the parcels included in the deed, property owners may discover that they misunderstood their boundaries. Other times, hiring a surveyor to validate where the boundary falls could be helpful. Neighbors can sometimes settle disagreements about boundary placement cooperatively if one party realizes they misunderstood the placement of the boundary. Litigation is sometimes necessary Unfortunately, neither informal communications nor surveys automatically resolve a boundary dispute. In some cases, a neighbor may move forward with their plan to erect a fence or expand their garage. In such cases, litigation can help solve the matter. Civil court judges can issue injunctions preventing the completion of a project that violates a neighbor’s property rights. They can also instruct the other party to remove or relocate improvements that cross the boundary line at their own expense. Judges can even update inaccurate county records after reviewing deeds and surveyor reports. Real property owners need to understand their rights and take prompt action when a neighbor might unfairly try to lay claim to part of their parcel. Taking legal action to defend real property against boundary violations is sometimes the best option available.