Encroachment is intrusion onto property by improvement to an adjoining property. Which option correctly defines encroachment?

Encroachment is intrusion onto property by improvement to an adjoining property. Which option correctly defines encroachment?

• A. Intrusion onto property by improvement to an adjoining property
• B. A boundary dispute between neighbors
• C. Trespass with no improvement
• D. A lien on the property

Answer: (A)

Encroachment means a neighbor’s improvement actually crosses the boundary onto your land. It’s not just a dispute about where the line is; it’s a physical intrusion by a structure, fence, or other improvement from one property onto another. This matters in title work because surveys may reveal the encroachment, which can affect marketability and may require a remedy—such as removing or relocating the encroaching feature, obtaining an easement or license, or even purchasing the encroached land. It’s different from a general boundary dispute or from a simple trespass without any improvement, and it’s not a lien.

Encroachment means a neighbor’s improvement actually crosses the boundary onto your land. It’s not just a dispute about where the line is; it’s a physical intrusion by a structure, fence, or other improvement from one property onto another. This matters in title work because surveys may reveal the encroachment, which can affect marketability and may require a remedy—such as removing or relocating the encroaching feature, obtaining an easement or license, or even purchasing the encroached land. It’s different from a general boundary dispute or from a simple trespass without any improvement, and it’s not a lien.