Definition
When a structure, improvement, or object from one property illegally extends onto a neighboring property. It's your neighbor's fence being three feet on your side, discovered precisely when you're trying to sell.
Example Usage
The survey revealed that the previous owner's garage encroached two feet onto the adjacent lot, requiring expensive relocation before closing.
Origin
From Old French 'encrochier' meaning to seize or hook onto
Fun Fact
Minor encroachments discovered during surveys have killed more real estate deals than most sellers care to admit.
Source: Property law and surveying terminology
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “encroachment” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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