For two neighboring property owners, that question became very real. Their century-old plat showed boundaries that didn’t perfectly match the physical land—creating confusion about ownership.
The issue didn’t surface until years later, when both owners ordered new surveys.
Each survey identified a different boundary line.
The result: a disputed strip of land between the properties, with both owners believing it was theirs.
Attempts to resolve the disagreement informally failed. Eventually, one owner filed a lawsuit to establish the boundary, remove the neighbor from the disputed area, and confirm ownership. The neighbor responded with a counterclaim.
Without resolution, the case was on track for full litigation.
That would have meant expert witnesses, historical research, multiple surveys, and significant legal costs for both sides—not to mention time and stress.
One of the property owners had a First American Owner’s Policy of Title Insurance.
That policy became a key resource for the insured owner, providing legal defense, access to experts familiar with historic boundary issues, and financial support on matters covered by the title insurance policy to help address the dispute.
Both parties reached an agreement on a mutually recognized boundary. The matter was settled with First American paying $80,000 under the policy and associated legal costs, subject to the terms and coverage of the policy—helping the insured owner avoid a prolonged court process.
Older properties, especially those mapped generations ago, can have hidden inconsistencies between recorded boundaries and the physical land.
These disputes can strain relationships with adjoining neighbors, and become expensive quickly.
Some risks aren’t visible until a conflict arises.
A First American Owner’s Policy helps protect your ownership rights and provides support on matters covered by the title insurance policy—so you’re not facing those challenges alone.
As with any insurance contract, the insuring provisions express the coverage afforded by the title insurance policy and there are exceptions, exclusions and conditions to coverage that limit or narrow the coverage afforded by the policy. Also, some coverage may not be available in a particular area or transaction due to legal, regulatory, or underwriting considerations.
Please contact a First American representative for further information. The services described above are typical basic services. The services provided to you may be different due to the specifics of your transaction or the location of the real property involved.
