Settling Uncertain Boundary Lines

Joe lives next to Ryan. Joe has lived in his home for many years. Ryan moved into his home just about a year ago. Ryan mentioned to Joe that he would like to install a small ornamental iron fence around his property. Ryan asked Joe if he knew where the boundary line fell. Joe admitted that he had no idea of the exact boundary line. Joe and Ryan pulled out their deeds and looked at the property descriptions attached to each deed. Still, they were unable to determine the exact boundary line. What are the parties' options?

Often property owners do not know the location of the exact boundaries of their property. Unless the property has been surveyed by a professional surveyor, the issue may be unclear. Alternatives are available to help neighbors settle uncertain boundary lines.

Settling Uncertain Boundary Lines

Certainly, neighbors could allow a court to clarify a boundary line. Submitting the issue to a court, however, may not always be the best resolution of the problem. Other options include:

• hiring a professional surveyor and splitting the cost; or
• settling the boundary with a written agreement.

In the case of neighbors, it seems that the friendliest resolution may be the best approach. It may be that, neighbor-to-neighbor, things can be worked out, without further measures and costs.

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