What does encroachment refer to in real property law?

Encroachment in real property law specifically refers to the unauthorized intrusion of a structure or fixture onto the land of a neighboring property. This situation often arises when a building, fence, or other improvement extends beyond the legal property lines and onto adjacent property without the owner's permission. When encroachment occurs, it can lead to disputes between property owners, as the affected owner may seek to remove the encroaching structure or negotiate use rights.

The concept of encroachment is important for understanding property rights and the responsibilities of landowners. It highlights the need for clear property lines and can have implications for property title, potential liability, and remedies available for the encroaching party.

In contrast to encroachment, the other options address different concepts in real property law. For instance, the legal right to use another’s property for a specific purpose points towards easements but does not describe encroachment. Dividing land into parcels correctly relates to land subdivision laws, and the requirement to maintain boundary lines pertains to boundary maintenance, which again differs from the notion of encroachment itself.