Experienced Legal Help For Property Line Disputes In Washington
A fence appears to cross your property line. Your neighbor builds a shed that extends onto your land. Trees, landscaping or a shared boundary become a source of conflict. These situations can leave you unsure about where your property begins and what your options are.
Established in 2004, Lovik & Juhl, PLLC, provides representation to help Washington homeowners resolve property line disputes and other real estate law concerns.
Resolving Boundary Disputes Between Neighbors
A boundary dispute can involve more than determining where a line appears on a map. Surveys, deeds, property records and the way the land has been used over time may all be important.
The firm’s lawyers assist with issues involving the following areas and more:
- Adverse possession: A person may make a claim to land based on possession that meets specific legal requirements. Washington generally requires the necessary possession to continue for 10 years, although different statutory rules may apply in some cases.
- Boundary agreements: When a property line is unclear or disputed, Washington law provides a process for affected owners to agree on and formally document a boundary. If they cannot agree, then an owner may pursue a court determination.
- Mutual recognition and acquiescence: In some cases, a long-recognized physical boundary may become the legal boundary even if a later survey shows a different line. Washington courts require specific elements, including proof of recognition for the required period.
Understanding which law or claim applies often requires a careful review of the property’s history.
How The Firm’s Attorneys Can Help
Lawyers at Lovik & Juhl, PLLC, can review deeds, surveys and other records to determine what may be causing the disagreement. They can also evaluate existing boundary surveys and help clients negotiate with neighboring property owners.
When an agreement is not possible, litigation may be necessary. Depending on the circumstances, this may include pursuing a quiet title action to resolve competing claims to the property. The attorneys can also assist homeowners with related matters, including easement cases and homeowners association (HOA) conflicts.
Answering Common Questions About Property Line Disputes
Every property dispute is different. The answers below provide general information about common concerns homeowners have.
Who settles property line disputes?
Property owners may reach an agreement themselves or through negotiations involving their attorneys. Surveyors can help identify boundary lines, while a court may ultimately determine property rights when the parties cannot resolve the dispute.
How do you dispute a property line? Are boundary disputes worth it?
Start by reviewing your deed, survey and other property records. A real estate lawyer can assess the evidence, explain your options and help determine whether negotiation or legal action makes sense. Whether pursuing a dispute is worthwhile depends on factors such as the land involved, its use and the potential cost of the conflict.
Speak To A Washington Property Line Dispute Attorney Now
Property line conflicts can affect how you use and enjoy your home. Contact Lovik & Juhl, PLLC, to discuss your situation with an experienced attorney and learn about your options. Call the office at 206-649-7504 or reach out via the firm’s online contact form.