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Writer's pictureAdam Garrett

Checking for Encroachment & Adverse Possession


Google Earth Historic Imagery Courtesy Google Earth

A commonly neglected element of real estate in some places like Hampton Roads in VA where surveys aren't typical on home purchases (though still typical on land purchases) is checking for encroachment and adverse possession. Below the majority of what I'll be sharing is principles applicable in most states, but with the law focused on VA.


Basics

What is Encroachment?

What is Adverse Possession?

How Does a Survey Impact Title Insurance?

Difference Between Plat & Survey


Steps to Locate Potential Encroachment if You Don't Have a Survey:

  1. Determine what website or app you'll use to start other than Google Earth to Find Parcel Boundaries

  1. What to Look For

  1. Get a Survey for Highest Accuracy

Steps to Locate Potential Adverse Possession via Historical Imagery

  1. Get Google Earth

Download Google Earth on a desktop/laptop if you haven’t already (the web desktop version won’t work for what’s next)

Easiest Option: Side by Side Differing Programs

Option to Import Single Parcel Map onto Google Earth

Option to Import Whole Cities or Counties into Google Earth

  1. Input the Address

  1. Open Google Earth Historical Imagery

  1. Go back at least 15 years in VA (other amounts in other states) to find out if the encroachment occurred then or sooner.

  1. What Law to Know in VA


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