The Language of Real Estate – Learning Real Estate one word (or phrase) at a time
Abutting Owner
An owner whose land adjoins a public road or any contiguous property.
The major problems between abutting owners occur regarding encroachments, party walls, access, light and air easements, and lateral support.
Abutting owners may have certain rights and obligations concerning their adjacent properties, such as the responsibility to maintain shared boundaries, comply with zoning regulations, and resolve disputes related to property boundaries. In some cases, they may also have legal rights to access or use a portion of the neighboring property if specific legal agreements or easements exist.
Abutter’s rights include the right to see and be seen from the street. (See access, lateral and subjacent support.)
The relationship between abutting owners is governed by property and land use laws, as well as any local ordinances or agreements that pertain to their specific situation.