Boundary determination, step by step
Where two neighbours jointly instruct us to consider a boundary and give an independent determination — with fees shared equally. A practical, staged route to resolving and recording a boundary, without going to court.
How it works
- Both parties instruct jointly
- A clear, staged process
- An independent, evidence-led view
Five clear stages
Initial telephone discussion
A no-cost call of up to 30 minutes with each party. We get to the bottom of what the dispute is really about, explain how the service works, check it is suitable for you both, and set out the likely next steps and costs. Nothing is determined at this stage — it simply lets everyone decide whether to proceed to formal instruction.
Paperwork gathering and dispute summary
Once instructed, we gather the documents from both parties — Land Registry titles and plans, conveyance or transfer plans, photographs, correspondence, earlier plans or reports, and each party’s written account of the dispute. We then prepare a short summary identifying the key issues, the documents received and the matters to examine on site. Where it would help, we may ask the parties to arrange a measured site survey; the cost of that survey is arranged and paid for separately.
Site visit and boundary assessment
We visit to inspect the boundary in person — walls, fences, hedges and other features, occupation lines, historic and current physical evidence, on-site measurements, and how the physical boundary relates to the title documents and any measured survey provided. The fee can rise where the property is large, access is difficult, the boundary is extensive, or the issues prove more complex than first expected.
Written boundary determination
We prepare a written determination setting out our view: a summary of the documents considered, a summary of the site observations, our determination of the boundary position, and practical recommendations for recording it. The aim is a practical resolution both parties can work from — this is not court representation or litigation support.
Boundary drawing and Land Registry update support
Where the parties agree the boundary and want it properly recorded, we can prepare or arrange a boundary drawing, prepare a plan to assist a Land Registry application, help identify the right Land Registry process, assist with the paperwork, and liaise with both parties so the agreed line is clearly recorded. Land Registry, legal, survey and other third-party charges are not included unless expressly agreed.
A measured site survey is sometimes needed to assess the boundary properly. Where required, it is arranged and paid for separately and is not included in the stage fees.
What this service is — and isn’t
A shared, practical route
We are jointly instructed and do not act for either party individually. The goal is to resolve and record a boundary in a practical, cost-effective way, on the evidence.
Not litigation
We do not provide court representation, legal advocacy or litigation services. Please take independent legal advice where needed — particularly before signing any binding boundary agreement, transfer, deed or Land Registry application.