Adjoining landowners are owners of land with common boundaries, and have mutual rights, duties, and obligations related to their adjoining pieces of land.
In Virginia, adjoining landowners, also known as adjacent property owners, have certain rights and responsibilities concerning their shared property lines. These rights and duties are often governed by state statutes, local ordinances, and case law. One of the primary concerns is the maintenance and repair of boundary fences, which is addressed in the Virginia Code. The law stipulates that when a fence is needed, adjoining landowners are typically responsible for sharing the cost of construction and maintenance. Additionally, Virginia follows the common law principle that landowners have the duty not to use their land in a way that causes harm to their neighbor's property, such as by causing erosion or flooding. Disputes between adjoining landowners over issues like encroachments, easements, and nuisance can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or, if necessary, litigation. It is advisable for landowners to be aware of their rights and obligations and to consult with an attorney if disputes arise or if there is uncertainty regarding property boundaries or the application of the law.