Property & boundary
dispute checker
It's your land. If a neighbour's fence creeps over the line, their tree leans into your garden, or someone treats your plot like theirs, here's exactly where you stand and how to put it in writing.
UK & US covered
Toggle the country and get the right framework: HM Land Registry and abatement rights in the UK, surveys and the Massachusetts rule in the US.
Know where you stand
Boundary lines, overhanging trees and roots, trespass on your land, damage and encroaching structures - the law explained in plain English.
A letter ready to send
Generate a calm, firm letter to your neighbour that names the legal basis and sets a clear deadline to put things right.
Property dispute checker
Tell us what's happening on your land. We'll explain where you stand and generate a formal letter to send your neighbour.
The escalation ladder
Start at the top. Most disputes settle once the legal basis is in writing - court is the last resort, not the first.
Common questions
Can I cut my neighbour's branches that hang over my garden?
In the UK you have a common-law right of abatement: you may cut overhanging branches and roots back to the boundary line at your own cost, but only from your side, and you must offer the cuttings back. Check first for a Tree Preservation Order or conservation area. In the US, the majority "Massachusetts rule" lets you trim back to the property line at your own expense - but never in a way that kills the tree, or you risk treble damages in many states.
My neighbour built a fence on my land. What can I do?
In the UK, compare your HM Land Registry title plan to what's on the ground; a fence over the true line is a trespass and you can require it to be moved, escalating to a determined boundary application or a County Court claim. In the US, your recorded survey or plat governs - an encroachment can be challenged by a quiet title or ejectment action, and you should not leave it unaddressed because of adverse possession.
Someone keeps walking across or parking on land I own. Is that illegal?
Entering, parking on, dumping on, mowing or otherwise interfering with land you clearly own is trespass to land, and it's actionable even without any damage. You can seek an injunction to stop it and damages. The police usually treat it as a civil matter, so keep dated photos and a log of every incident, and put your objection in writing.
Does this work outside England?
The UK guidance reflects the law in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate property law regimes, so treat the principles as a starting point there. The US guidance is general common law only, because rules vary by state, county and HOA - always confirm your local position.
Is this legal advice?
No. This is general information to help you understand your position and open the conversation. For anything contested or high-value, take advice from a chartered surveyor or solicitor in the UK, or a licensed surveyor or attorney in the US.
Neighbour still ignoring you?
Turn this into a full case with evidence handling, the right legal basis, and a clear escalation plan to surveyor, mediation or court.
Start your free complaintRelated
Other places this tool comes in handy - plus the companies most likely to be on the receiving end.