Encroachment in legal terms refers to the unauthorised intrusion or trespass onto another person’s property, usually in the form of structures, improvements, or activities that extend beyond the boundaries of one’s own property lines. This encroachment can occur intentionally or inadvertently, but regardless of the circumstances, it can lead to disputes between property owners regarding property rights, land use, and property value. Resolving encroachment issues often involves legal action, negotiation, or the use of boundary surveys to determine property lines accurately. In some cases, agreements may be reached for the encroaching structure to be removed or modified to comply with property boundaries, while in others, legal remedies such as injunctions or monetary damages may be pursued.
A structure, or part of a structure, built on another individual’s property.
n. the act of building a structure which is in whole or in part on a neighbour’s property.
- An entry into a place or area that was previously uncommon; an advance beyond former borders; intrusion; incursion.
- An intrusion upon another’s possessions or rights; infringement.
- That which is gained by such unlawful intrusion.
The building of a structure entirely or partly on a neighbour’s property. Encroachment may occur due to faulty surveying or sheer obstreperousness on the part of the builder. Solutions range from paying the rightful property owner for the use of the property to the court-ordered removal of the structure.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/encroachment/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Encroachment. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. April 18, 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/encroachment/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Encroachment. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/encroachment/ (accessed: April 18, 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Encroachment. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved April 18, 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/encroachment/
