Under New York State Real Property Law, property owners are entitled to exclusive possession and control of their land, including the right to seek judicial relief when unlawful encroachment occurs.This case study examines how a Manhattan property owner successfully enforced ownership rights against an adjoining land occupant who constructed and maintained a structure beyond lawful boundaries.Through boundary verification, title evidence, and statutory remedies under New York law, the court ordered removal of the encroaching structure and awarded restitution for unlawful use.
1. New York State Real Property Law | Client Background and Property Dispute Overview
The client was a lifelong New York resident who inherited a substantial parcel of undeveloped land located in northern Manhattan through a properly recorded testamentary transfer.For several years, the property remained unused while the client resided outside the city, unaware of any boundary interference or adverse claims.Upon returning to New York, the client discovered that a neighboring property owner had extended a permanent structure onto a portion of the inherited land without authorization.
Discovery of Unauthorized Land Use
The encroachment involved a fixed building extension that crossed the recorded boundary line and occupied several hundred square feet of the client’s land.
The neighboring party asserted that long term use justified continued possession, despite lacking any deed, easement, or written agreement.
Multiple informal demands for removal were ignored, prompting escalation under New York State Real Property Law remedies.
2. New York State Real Property Law | Legal Issues and Statutory Framework
This dispute required analysis under the New York Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law (RPAPL), including §§ 501 and 511, and related ejectment and trespass provisions governing unlawful occupation of real property.Under New York law, mere use or proximity does not confer ownership rights absent adverse possession meeting strict statutory requirements.The defense failed to satisfy the continuous, exclusive, hostile, open, and notorious possession standards required under RPAPL Article 5.
Boundary Determination and Survey Evidence
A licensed New York surveyor conducted a formal boundary survey in accordance with Real Property Law standards.
The survey conclusively demonstrated that the structure encroached beyond the defendant’s legal lot line and intruded into the client’s recorded parcel.
This evidence formed the foundation for injunctive relief and monetary claims under New York State Real Property Law.
Rejection of Unsupported Ownership Claims
The defendant produced informal documents and verbal assertions but failed to establish any lawful interest recognized under New York law.
The court emphasized that equitable claims cannot override recorded title without statutory compliance.
As a result, all asserted defenses were dismissed as legally insufficient.
3. New York State Real Property Law | Litigation Strategy and Court Proceedings
The legal team commenced a civil action seeking ejectment, removal of the encroaching structure, and recovery of unjust enrichment for unauthorized land use.Claims were supported by certified deeds, land records, tax documentation, and expert survey testimony.The court evaluated the matter under established New York State Real Property Law principles governing possessory rights and remedies.
Submission of Title and Land Registry Records
Official deed records and land registry filings confirmed that the client held sole legal title following inheritance and lawful recording.
No easements, licenses, or encumbrances were found affecting the disputed portion of land.
This documentary evidence eliminated any ambiguity regarding ownership.
4. New York State Real Property Law | Case Outcome and Judicial Ruling
The court granted judgment in favor of the client, ordering immediate removal of the encroaching structure and restoration of the land to its original condition.Additionally, the defendant was ordered to compensate the client for unjust enrichment equivalent to fair rental value during the period of unlawful occupation.All litigation costs were assessed against the defendant, reaffirming the strength of New York State Real Property Law protections.
Enforcement of Exclusive Property Rights
This ruling reinforced that New York courts strictly protect recorded ownership and do not tolerate unauthorized land use.
Property owners are entitled to both injunctive relief and monetary recovery when unlawful encroachment occurs.
The decision serves as a clear precedent for enforcing boundary integrity under New York State Real Property Law.
