Real Property

Encroachment

A physical intrusion of a structure or improvement onto an adjacent property or public right-of-way.


Definition

An encroachment occurs when a building, fence, driveway, or other improvement extends beyond the property boundary onto neighboring land or a public right-of-way. Encroachments are typically discovered during a property survey. They can create legal disputes and affect title marketability. The encroaching property owner may be required to remove the encroachment or may gain prescriptive rights if the encroachment continues without objection for the statutory period.

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