How Land Registry Documents Help With Boundary Disputes

Boundary Disputes and the Land Registry

Boundary disputes between neighbours are among the most common property disagreements. Land Registry documents — particularly the title plan — are the starting point for understanding where boundaries lie.

What the Title Plan Can Tell You

The title plan shows the general boundary of each registered property. By comparing the title plans of neighbouring properties, you can see:

The approximate position of the boundary as recorded by the Land Registry

Whether any gaps or overlaps exist between adjoining titles

Whether features like walls, fences, or hedges are inside or outside the registered boundary

Coloured tinting that may reference specific boundary descriptions in the register

The General Boundary Rule

Under the Land Registration Act 2002, the boundary shown on a title plan is a **general boundary**. This means it shows the approximate position but does not determine the exact line. The exact boundary may differ slightly from what the plan shows.

This is a crucial point in boundary disputes. The title plan is strong evidence of the boundary position but is not conclusive on its own.

What the Title Register Adds

The title register may contain entries relevant to boundaries:

References to boundary features ("bounded on the north by a brick wall")

Easements affecting boundary areas

Restrictive covenants about maintaining boundaries

Filed documents that describe boundaries in more detail

Steps to Resolve a Boundary Dispute

1. **Get both title plans**: Compare the registered extent of each property

2. **Read both title registers**: Look for boundary-related entries

3. **Check historical documents**: Filed copies may contain original boundary descriptions

4. **Talk to your neighbour**: Many disputes can be resolved through discussion and agreement

5. **Boundary agreement**: A formal agreement can be filed with the Land Registry

6. **Exact boundary determination**: Apply to the Land Registry under Section 60 of the Land Registration Act 2002

7. **Legal action**: If all else fails, the court can determine the boundary

Costs and Proportionality

Boundary disputes that reach court can cost tens of thousands of pounds — often far more than the value of the disputed strip of land. Always try to resolve matters through discussion, mediation, or a boundary agreement before litigating.

Get Your Title Plans

Search for properties involved in a boundary dispute on Online Land Registry.