Summary
Useful information on boundary disputes and the law including information on how to deal with a boundary dispute.
Boundary disputes and legal boundaries
The local authority does not have a role in resolving boundary disputes.
Boundaries are shown on large scale Ordnance Survey plans held by the Land Registry, however these are the physical rather than legal boundaries.
The Land Registration Act 2002 enables you to determine the exact line of your boundaries on a registered title.
A minor disagreement can quickly become a full scale dispute involving solicitor's letters and the threat of court action. Even more damaging are the costs involved. Therefore, it pays to think hard before taking legal action.
Mapping the exact boundary
Accurately identifying the boundary between properties needs specialist knowledge. The red line drawn around a property on a Land Registry plan only shows the general boundary. It does not identify whether the boundary runs along the centre of a hedge or along one side of it. Ordnance Survey maps are equally unreliable because as part of the mapping process, they do not indicate exact boundaries. Thus a line surrounding a property is not necessarily the property boundary.
Boundaries can change over time for many reasons: a diverted water course, or a wooden fence that moves slightly each time it is replaced. The reason for such changes is rarely recorded and can lead to disputes, especially if the owner has lost the right to move the boundary line back to its original position.
Dealing with disputes
If a dispute can not be resolved between the parties, the only way to resolve the dispute quickly and efficiently is to employ an expert. Before you engage an expert to work on your behalf check whether they are experienced in mapping and land surveys, the latest civil procedure rules, preparing reports for court and acting as an expert witness in court?
The matter may ultimately be resolved before going to court or the court may define the boundary line and issue an order to that effect. A chartered land surveyor can then mark out the boundary line. They may supervise any fencing or building contractors to ensure there are no further arguments.
Who to contact
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors provide 30 minutes of free advice on boundary disputes. They can be contacted on 0870 333 1600.
Link to the Boundary Dispute leaflet| [External link] produced by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.