Most of the time, the boundary lines between close neighbors are well-defined and marked out by hedges and fences. But if there is no clear distinction, or you disagree about where the border should be, it can cause conflicts over land use and maintenance. If you find yourself in a boundary dispute, there are a few smart steps you can take to resolve it favorably.

What to Do in a Boundary Dispute

1. Negotiate With Your Neighbor

One option is to meet with your neighbor and try to come to an agreement about a new boundary. Legal representation and professional mediation can be very helpful in reaching a resolution that suits all parties. Once you do so, each owner signs a quitclaim deed to turn over their right to any land on the far side of the new property line.

2. Arrange a Property Survey

One of the most straightforward ways to resolve a dispute over land is to have a surveyor come and mark the boundary. They will rely on the deed to the property to describe exactly where the line should be. Unfortunately, older documents don’t always offer precise descriptions, so these professionals can’t resolve every disagreement.

3. File a Suit

If a surveyor can’t help you, often an attorney can. A lawyer will assist in filing a title lawsuit, asking a judge to rule on the property line. They can also advise in cases where legal principles like adverse possession may affect the ownership of the land in question.

Whether you’re trying to build a new fence or negotiating use of an easement, a boundary dispute can quickly become confusing and heated. With the help of professional surveyors and the trusted attorneys at Scott & Heenan LLC, you’ll get a definitive answer on your property line. For almost 20 years, the lawyers have served Grant County, WI, with effective and detail-oriented legal representation. To schedule a consultation about your case, contact them today at (608) 348-9506 or reach out online.