What does "encroachment" refer to in real property law?

Encroachment in real property law refers specifically to the unauthorized intrusion of one property onto another. This typically occurs when a structure, such as a fence, building, or landscaping, extends beyond the legal boundary of one parcel of land and into the area belonging to an adjacent property owner.

The significance of recognizing encroachment lies in the potential legal consequences it can create, such as the filing of disputes or claims for damages. In many cases, the encroaching party may be required to remove the intrusion or compensate the affected property owner. This concept is fundamental in real estate transactions and property management, as it emphasizes the importance of respecting property boundaries.

The other options relate to issues relevant to property law but do not define encroachment. Legal ownership disputes between neighbors touch on broader conflicts that may arise from multiple issues, including encroachment but are not confined to that specific definition. Boundary adjustments are consensual agreements between landowners to modify property lines, which contrasts with the unilateral nature of encroachment. Lastly, the establishment of property easements involves rights to use someone else's property for a specific purpose but does not inherently involve the concept of encroachment.