Disputes between neighbours over property boundaries are the most common forms of legal property issues in the UK. What may start as a disagreement about a fence line or a shared driveway can quickly escalate into a full-blown boundary dispute, affecting relationships, property values, and your peace of mind.
At Wayman & Long, we understand that these kinds of conflicts can be particularly stressful because they often involve people living side-by-side. That’s why having a supportive, local solicitor is so important. Not only can we offer legal guidance, we can also act as a steady, objective voice in what can often become a heated situation.
In this blog, we’ll explore how a local solicitor can help resolve your boundary dispute, why these cases arise, and what steps you can take to protect your property and your rights.
A boundary dispute typically arises when two neighbouring property owners disagree about where the legal boundary between their properties lies. Often, the problem comes from outdated or unclear title plans, or from assumptions made over the years without formal legal confirmation.
Disputes can involve disagreements over:
Boundary disputes are not just about land, they’re about personal space and relationships between neighbours. As a result, they can easily become emotional and difficult to manage.
Many people enter into these disputes believing that the situation will be resolved quickly, only to find that their neighbour has a completely different understanding of the boundary line.
Without expert guidance, what could have been settled early on may spiral into a legal conflict, impacting your enjoyment of your home and potentially reducing your property’s value.
When you’re involved in a boundary dispute, working with a local solicitor can make all the difference. Here’s why:
A local solicitor like Wayman & Long is not only familiar with the regional property landscape, but also understands the local authorities, planning histories, and geographical quirks that often come into play in boundary disputes. Being nearby also means that we’re more accessible and can liaise directly with surveyors as well as being able to meet face-to-face for important discussions.
Unlike large national firms where your case may be passed between departments, a local solicitor offers a more personal, responsive approach. At Wayman and Long, you’ll speak directly to the solicitor handling your matter, with regular updates and practical advice every step of the way.
Boundary disputes often involve interpreting Land Registry plans, historical deeds, and aerial images. Local solicitors have the experience and context to make sense of these documents and identify inconsistencies that may not be obvious to those unfamiliar with the area.
We always aim to resolve disputes without court proceedings where possible. This could involve negotiation, mediation, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Our proximity means we can act quickly and facilitate meetings in person, which is often a faster and more effective way to de-escalate tensions.
If your boundary dispute cannot be resolved amicably, we can represent you in civil litigation. Having a solicitor who already knows your case, understands the local court system, and has built the evidence from day one puts you in a much stronger position should the matter go to court.
Every boundary dispute is different, but your solicitor will typically follow the below process to achieve a resolution.
Here’s how Wayman & Long can help:
Reviewing your property documents
We begin by examining the Land Registry title plan and accompanying deeds. These documents can provide initial clues about the location and nature of the boundary. However, they’re often too vague on their own, so we also look for supporting evidence, including old photographs, maps, and neighbour agreements.
Engaging a chartered surveyor
In many cases, we recommend instructing an independent surveyor to carry out a site inspection. This helps to establish the physical boundary and compare it with the legal documents. A surveyor’s report can provide persuasive evidence during negotiations or in court.
Communicating with your neighbour
We will formally contact your neighbour, setting out your position and the basis of your claim. If appropriate, we will propose mediation or a roundtable meeting to encourage a co-operative solution; aiming to resolve the matter with as little hostility as possible.
Negotiation and settlement
In many cases, boundary disputes can be settled through informal agreements. This could include repositioning a fence, granting access rights, or formalising a historic arrangement that was never put into writing.
Applying to the Land Registry or court
If an agreement can’t be reached, we can assist you with:
Leaving a boundary dispute unresolved can have serious consequences.
These include:
Whilst not all boundary issues can be predicted, you can reduce the risk by working with a thorough conveyancing solicitor during the purchase process. At Wayman and Long, we review title plans carefully, highlight any anomalies, and advise you on steps to clarify or rectify issues before completion.
We also recommend speaking to the seller or neighbours about any informal arrangements or recent disagreements. These conversations can be incredibly helpful in spotting potential disputes before they become your problem.
Boundary disputes can be complex and costly, but they don’t have to be. With the right legal support, many issues can be resolved quickly and without the need for court proceedings.
At Wayman & Long, we combine local knowledge, legal expertise, and a practical, personalised approach to help you resolve your boundary dispute effectively. Whether you need early advice, negotiation support, or representation in court, we’re here to protect your rights and restore peace of mind, and have been for almost 200 years.
Contact the expert Property Solicitors at Wayman & Long today by calling us on 01787 277375, email us at enquiries@waymanandlong.co.uk or fill out our online contact form.
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