What is encroachment?
Encroachment happens when a structure or object, a fence, a shed, an overgrown hedge, gets built or extended outside the boundaries of one property and onto a neighbor’s. It’s one of the most common sources of neighbor-to-neighbor friction in any community.
Why does encroachment matter?
Left unaddressed, an encroachment can turn into a legal claim on the land itself if it goes on long enough. Boards that catch and resolve these early, calmly, save both neighbors years of resentment and a much bigger headache down the line.
When You’ll Run Into This
This usually surfaces the moment a new survey gets done, a fence goes up, or a neighbor finally says something after months of quiet frustration. Pulling the community’s plat map early is almost always worth the ten minutes it takes.
Legal note: this is general information, not legal advice. Rules and requirements vary by state and by community, so it is worth checking with your association’s attorney to get an accurate answer for your specific situation.
