neighbors backyard bumpout encroaches on my property

was starting to think about building a better looking replacement for my decrepit chain link backyard fence and im noticing that my neighbors garden level bumpout is clearly on my property. i reviewed the surveying done for the title insurance and this encroachment is not listed. they did, however, force me to ask for a sagging fence to get fixed prior to purchase. do i have any kind of recourse here? by building the fence around the encroachment am i opening up a can of worms by forfeiting access to part of my property?

solehappy

in General Discussion 8 years and 2 months ago

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resident2 | 8 years and 2 months ago

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How long has the “bump out” been there? Historic Encroachments are very common and will stay for the duration, if it is a new addition that was not filed for by a prior owner you will need to speak to an Attorney that specializes in such matters.
As for the fence; I would build the fence up to the bump on both sides and allow the bump to protrude through the fence line. If there are windows in the bump; it would be very unfriendly to block the windows. Do not give away your land to sit behind a fence! It will also become an issue if your neighbor wants to make repairs to their bump, they will need to remove your fence.

daveinbedstuy | 8 years and 2 months ago

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You should have a lawyer review your survey and explain the options. I recommend David Fainkich 917-376-1588.

EJR | 8 years and 2 months ago

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Have you discussed the issue with your neighbor? That might be your best bet. If you build the fence around the encroachment than you are definitely forfeiting access to part of your property from a practical standpoint in that you won’t be able to use it. Whether or not you are forfeiting your rights from a legal standpoint is a more complex question that cannot be answered on a forum. You would need to speak to a lawyer, show him/her the plans, discuss history of use, etc.