How to Resolve a Boundary Dispute with Your Neighbour
How boundary disputes arise, what Land Registry title plans do and do not tell you, the steps to take before litigation, and how to resolve a dispute without the costs spiralling.
How to Resolve a Boundary Dispute with Your Neighbour
Boundary disputes are among the most bitter and expensive types of property litigation. Cases that began as a disagreement over a few inches of fence line have run for years and cost more in legal fees than the disputed land is worth.
Why Boundary Disputes Are Complicated
The title register at HM Land Registry shows the general boundary of a property, not the precise legal boundary. The red line on a title plan is drawn to a scale that means it can represent a significant margin of uncertainty on the ground.
Steps Before Litigation
- Get a measured survey from a chartered boundary surveyor
- Write to your neighbour setting out your position clearly
- Try mediation with a specialist boundary mediator
- Take legal advice: a property barrister can give you a written opinion on the likely outcome if the matter were litigated
If the Dispute Cannot Be Resolved
If negotiation and mediation fail, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to determine the precise legal boundary, or bring a claim in the County Court. The costs of boundary litigation are significant and are rarely recovered in full even if you win.
This article provides general legal information only. It is not formal legal advice and does not create a solicitor-client or barrister-client relationship. If you need advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal professional.
Need Professional Legal Help?
This guide is for general information only. For advice tailored to your situation, instruct a Direct Access barrister.