A few millimetres or centimetres can become a large dispute. Before accepting or rejecting the allegation, identify the claimed boundary line and the evidence said to establish it.
Ask what line is being relied upon
Is the allegation based on a title plan, an old fence, a deed plan, a survey, a historic wall or a measurement from another building? Different evidence can carry different weight.
Record the wall accurately
Where dimensions matter, measurements should relate the wall to stable reference points and to the evidence used to establish the boundary.
Separate physical encroachment from legal boundary uncertainty
If nobody has first established where the boundary probably lies, measuring the wall alone may not answer the real question.
If you believe a neighbour has built on your land
Document the structure and the relevant dates, obtain the drawings and explain the specific projection alleged. Check rights and permissions as well as the boundary evidence. If work is continuing and urgent action may be needed, obtain legal advice promptly. Avoid damaging or removing the neighbour’s construction yourself.
Need an evidence-led view?
For an early-stage assessment, consider an Early Neutral Evaluation. For a developed dispute, a fuller investigation report may be appropriate.
Early Neutral Evaluation → · Investigation reports →Adapted from Coburns’ boundary Knowledge Base for this site, with updated explanations and related guidance.