What Are Common Types of Real Estate Disputes?

Real estate disputes can arise for a variety of reasons, and they often create significant challenges for property owners, buyers, and sellers. These conflicts can disrupt transactions, damage relationships, and lead to costly legal battles. Understanding the common types of real estate disputes is key to knowing how to address them effectively.
At Oliveri & Larsen, we frequently assist Maryland clients facing a wide range of real estate issues. Below are the most common types of disputes that may impact your property rights or investment.
Boundary Disputes
Boundary disputes occur when property lines are unclear or contested. These disagreements often stem from inaccurate surveys, unclear deeds, or the encroachment of structures such as fences, driveways, or buildings. When neighbors cannot agree on where one property ends and the other begins, it can lead to prolonged legal battles. Resolving boundary disputes typically requires reviewing property records, conducting new surveys, and, in some cases, taking legal action to clarify ownership rights.
Breach of Contract
In any real estate transaction, a contract outlines the rights and obligations of both parties. A breach occurs when one party fails to uphold their end of the deal. Breaches of contracts in real estate can involve failure to disclose property defects, incomplete repairs, or non-payment. These disputes can lead to delays in closing a sale or, in some cases, cancellation of the transaction. Addressing a breach of contract usually involves negotiation, mediation, or litigation to seek enforcement or compensation.
Landlord-Tenant Disputes
The relationship between landlords and tenants can be a source of frequent disputes. Common issues include disagreements over rent, lease terms, security deposits, and maintenance responsibilities. Tenants may claim a landlord failed to make necessary repairs, while landlords may seek eviction for non-payment of rent. In Maryland, both parties have specific rights and responsibilities under state law. Resolving landlord-tenant disputes often involves mediation or legal intervention to ensure compliance with lease agreements and local housing regulations.
Easement Disputes
Easements grant certain rights to use someone else’s property, typically for specific purposes such as access to a road or utility maintenance. Disputes arise when property owners disagree about the existence, extent, or use of an easement. For instance, one party may claim that an easement does not exist, while another may believe they have broader rights than allowed. Easement disputes can be complex and often require a thorough review of property deeds, prior agreements, and state law.
Title Disputes
Title disputes occur when there is a question about who holds legal ownership of a property. These disputes may arise due to errors in public records, claims from heirs, or issues related to previously unresolved liens. Title disputes can put real estate transactions on hold and create uncertainty for buyers and sellers. Resolving title disputes usually involves working with title insurance companies, conducting thorough research, and sometimes initiating a quiet title action to clear up any confusion.
Zoning Disputes
Local governments in Maryland use zoning laws to regulate land use, determining what can and cannot be built on a piece of property. Disputes over zoning can arise when a property owner wants to use their land in a way that conflicts with local ordinances. This might include building a commercial structure in a residential area or constructing a home that exceeds size limits. Zoning disputes often require legal representation to appeal decisions or seek variances.
Construction Disputes
Construction projects can result in disputes between property owners, contractors, and developers. These disputes often involve claims of defective work, missed deadlines, or disagreements over payment. Construction disputes may also arise over property damage caused during a project. Resolving these issues typically involves reviewing contracts, inspecting the work completed, and negotiating settlements or pursuing litigation.
An Annapolis Real Estate Lawyer at Oliveri & Larsen Can Help You End Your Dispute
Real estate disputes are complex and can quickly escalate without proper legal guidance. Whether you are dealing with a boundary issue, a breach of contract, or a zoning conflict, working with a skilled attorney can help protect your interests and navigate the legal process. Speak with an Annapolis real estate lawyer at Oliveri & Larsen today. Contact us online or at 410-295-3000 to schedule your consultation with our experienced team. We serve clients throughout Annapolis, Ocean City, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Calvert County, Harford County, Howard County, Kent County, Queen Anne’s County, St. Mary’s County, Worcester County, and the upper and lower Eastern Shores of Maryland.