Land Surveys and Boundary Disputes
Boundary disputes in the US date back to colonial times when the European settlers started placing claims on land. They continue today. Years ago people used natural landmarks and distances marked with a basic compass. Over time trees die and rocks were moved. Today we have the Public Land Survey System, ground markers (monuments), and recorded plats and subdivisions to measure and define property lines.
Surveys reference elevations or grades as well as drainage, utilities, and easements to give you a complete picture of the property. As we survey property sometimes we find gaps between boundary lines.
The best way to avoid or resolve a property dispute is to get a boundary survey for your property. Then you know what you own. Please remember, a fence is not an accurate boundary indicator for your property.