Encroachment

    flowchart TD
	    A[Property Line] -->|Encroachment| B(Neighbor's Property)
	    A -->|Properly Moat| C(Your Property)
	    D(Owner) -->|Accidentally Extends| B
	    E(Take Survey) -->|Avoid Issues| A
	    F(Easement) -->|Legal Permission| B

## Which of the following is a cause of encroachment? - [x] Building a fence that crosses the property line - [ ] Asking the neighbor if you can park on their lawn - [ ] Installing a mailbox six feet from the property line - [ ] Painting your house in a vibrant color > **Explanation:** An encroachment happens when a property owner unknowingly or knowingly builds across property lines, like a fence that boldly takes over the neighbor's grass. ## What is the easiest way to prevent disputes over property lines? - [ ] Ignoring the issue - [ ] Having a party with all neighbors to discuss boundaries - [x] Conducting a land survey - [ ] Planting a lot of trees to obscure the line > **Explanation:** The best way to prevent boundary disputes is to know where your territory begins and ends; it’s like playing the game of Monopoly but without the 'Accidentally land on Jail' rule! ## What happens if an encroachment is not resolved? - [ ] It will magically disappear - [x] It could lead to legal disputes - [ ] A friendly neighborhood watch will clear it up - [ ] Your house will be turned into a public park > **Explanation:** Ignoring an encroachment can spark a legal battle, which is stressful and far less fun than a barbecue! ## Can a neighbor enforce their property boundaries regarding an existing encroachment? - [x] Yes, they can pursue legal action - [ ] No, it's etched forever in stone - [ ] Only if there’s a tree that generates magical powers - [ ] Yes, but only if they do a dance > **Explanation:** Neighbors can pursue action against encroachments, and it’s best to not let it fester, like this expired yogurt in the back of your fridge! ## What is one legal remedy for encroachment? - [x] Obtain a court injunction to remove it - [ ] Invite the owner over for tea - [ ] Ignore it forever and hope it goes away - [ ] Grow a really tall fence in retaliation > **Explanation:** A court injunction is a legal route to address encroachment, which absolutely trumps passive-aggressiveness! ## What typically is NOT a cause of encroachment? - [ ] Poorly marked property lines - [ ] Neighborly squabbling - [x] Agreeing to share a lawn - [ ] Expanding a patio too far > **Explanation:** While squabbling and poorly marked lines can lead to encroachment, sharing graciously does not! ## Can easements involve encroachment? - [ ] Yes, they're basically the same thing - [ ] No, easements are strictly for interdimensional travel - [x] Yes, but they involve consent and legal agreements - [ ] Only if you have a ‘magic wand’ > **Explanation:** Easements can have some relation to encroachment but are distinct in that they involve permission and not just taking over. ## What should one do if they discover an encroachment on their property? - [x] Consult a real estate attorney - [ ] Start a neighborhood watch - [ ] Cross fingers and hope no one notices - [ ] Hire a magician to make it disappear > **Explanation:** Seeking legal counsel is wise since real estate law offers black-and-white solutions to gray situations. ## How often should property lines be surveyed? - [ ] When you feel like a party - [x] When you’re buying a property or before a construction project - [ ] Every ten years like a dental check-up - [ ] Only when changing your mail carrier > **Explanation:** Property lines should generally be surveyed before significant changes in property ownership or development, rather than waiting for the mailman to complain! ## What’s a disadvantage of ignoring an encroachment? - [x] Prolonged legal havoc - [ ] More garden space - [ ] Free flowers from the neighbor - [ ] Painful childhood memories of sharing > **Explanation:** Ignoring an encroachment can lead to serious legal issues that overshadow those free flowers or growing space!