Neighbors can often be great. In fact, you can make lifelong friendships just by getting to know your neighbors. However, other times, neighbors can be a real pain. This is especially true if your neighbor has built a fence or other structure on your property. Ideally, local ordinances in Illinois will help prevent this from happening, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. So, what can you do if your neighbor encroaches on your property?
The Chicago Tribune suggests first seeing if your neighbor obtained a proper permit or other required legal document prior to building the structure or fence. You can check this because it is public record. Then, you should confirm your property lines to make sure it is really over on your property.
Once you have verified that it is your land, you could contest the permit with the local government. If a permit was not issued, you have a case that you can take to court because this would be trespassing. You will need to prove you did not give permission to build the fence or structure.
However, before you rush to court, you should try to talk with your neighbor. Sometimes these things can be easily worked out. This is especially true if you have had a cordial relationship with your neighbor beforehand.
If you notice a neighbor building a fence or structure and have concerns that it could be on your property, you should speak up before the job is complete. It is a lot of work and quite expensive to fix the issue after the fence or structure is in place. Demanding it to be removed could lead to hostile relations between you and your neighbor, which is best avoided if possible. This information is for education and is not legal advice.
