Adjoining landowners are owners of land with common boundaries, and have mutual rights, duties, and obligations related to their adjoining pieces of land.
In New York, adjoining landowners, or neighbors with adjacent properties, have certain rights and responsibilities concerning their shared property boundaries. These include the duty to not use their property in a way that would harm the adjoining property, the right to build and maintain boundary fences (subject to local ordinances), and the obligation to manage water runoff and support to prevent damage to the neighboring land. New York follows the common law rule for boundary trees, meaning that if a tree straddles a property line, both owners are considered joint owners of the tree and must consent to its removal or trimming. Disputes between adjoining landowners often involve issues such as encroachments, easements, and nuisances, and can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. It is important for landowners to be aware of local zoning laws and regulations that may affect their rights and obligations. For specific legal advice or to address a particular situation, it is recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in property law.