Boundary Dispute Solicitors.

A boundary dispute is a dispute arising between owners of neighbouring properties over where one property ends and another begins. They can arise for any number of reasons, but usually, boundary disputes are caused by tensions between neighbours, or new works such as house extensions or garden makeovers that force existing issues to the surface.

Some of the most common examples of boundary disputes include:

• Disagreements over boundary lines such as edges of gardens and placement of fences
• Repairs and responsibilities
• Fence / hedge / wall maintenance
• Overhanging house extensions
• Positions of pipes and drains
• Overhanging foliage
• Right of access to a piece of land

When it comes to resolving a boundary dispute, there are three options:

1. Agreeing with your neighbour amicably. Although this can sound farfetched in some instances, it’s a step that’s worth taking. If successful, coming to an amicable agreement can save you a lot of time and money.
2. Seeking alternative dispute resolution (ADR). ADR is a range of methods of reaching an agreement with the help of a professional without taking the boundary dispute to court. Even if you feel ADR is a waste of time, our solicitors would encourage you to take this step. For instance, if the case goes to court, the judge will look for evidence of the parties seeking forms of ADR. In a circumstance where one party has refused to seek ADR, the judge may look poorly on their standing in the case.
3. Legal action. If none of the previous steps work, you’re left with one final option. Instructing a qualified boundary dispute solicitor to construct a solid case to ensure you get a fair outcome to your boundary dispute.

It’s incredibly difficult to advise on the cost of an average boundary dispute as there’s no such thing, and due to the different ways they can be resolved.

Normally, the cost of any boundary disputes for residential land will be disproportionate to the value of the disputed land, so you should consider carefully whether or not to take further steps.

Commercial land or farmland typically makes much more financial sense to contest when it comes to boundaries.

Coming to an agreement through mediation may cost several thousand pounds, while the cost of going to court can easily exceed £10,000.

Our boundary dispute solicitors will advise on the fees you’ll be expected to pay during your consultation. To arrange a consultation, contact our solicitors on 020 3007 5500.

If you can come to an amicable agreement over a boundary dispute without solicitors, they can be resolved within days.

However, more complex cases require extensive evidence to be gathered, experts such as surveyors to be involved and court dates to be allocated. All of this means it can take 6 months to over a year before a boundary dispute is settled.

We are currently unable to offer legal aid in any capacity as we lack the necessary legal aid certificate. We also don’t offer pro bono property law work at present.