Boundary disputes can be a significant issue, and they happen for a variety of reasons. Two people who own real estate in close proximity may not agree on where the boundary line actually lies, for instance. Something like this can usually be resolved by having a survey carried out.
A complicated issue involves what can be done with trees that are near that boundary line. Say that there are trees on your neighbor’s property, and you want to trim the branches back because they create unwanted shade or perhaps because there’s a risk of those branches falling into your yard and onto your property. But you do know where the property line is, so you understand that you certainly do not own the trees. They belong to your neighbor. Are you allowed to trim them anyway?
Staying behind the property line
You can trim the branches back as necessary to keep your yard safe and create the type of environment you want – as long as you must stay on your side of the property line. You can only trim the branches up to that line, and you cannot trim any branches that are on the other side.
Moreover, you need to be careful while trimming the branches that you do it correctly and do not cause damage to the tree itself. If you do damage the trunk or if the tree dies due to the trimming, you could be liable for harming your neighbor’s property.
Resolving a dispute
The above addresses one potential type of real estate dispute, but you can see how quickly things get complicated. If you’re involved in such a dispute with your neighbor, make sure you know exactly what legal rights and options you have.
