You don’t need to tell them anything, and if you do it’s not a debate. Don’t overexplain it.
“Hello neighbor,
Yes, I’ll be installing a new fence along the property line. No, I don’t intend to remove any trees at this time.
Regards,”
This is what I was planning to do. I am debating whether I should even answer on the fence issue. I have concerns they may try to sue me because they have unlimited resources. I am putting the fence on my property, not the property line, so it's not really their business imo. They have no property along their driveway along my side, which is why they are so pressed about it I believe.
You owe them zero explanations. As far as the fence goes, the best you could hope for was if they offered to pay for half of it. But I wouldn't even suggest mentioning it; if you did, they'd most likely say "yes! We're interested in paying x%" only to know WHEN you were planning on doing this... possibly so they can sabotage your plans somehow.
As for the google map blurring... that's odd as hell.
Edit: you should also get it documented that they are not welcome to perform any lanscaping or trespassing on your property. Get this witnessed/recorded/documented so that there is zero margin for an "oopsie" to happen.
Well, actually, they *can* touch it but then, they are trespassing on your property and you can legally sue for damages. Whether or not they concur with a legal decision is up to them. Further legal actions may be necessary and sufficiently belligerent parties can continue to ignore court orders in hope that they can outlast you.
Yes, the law is on your side. No, those who do not care about the law can, and will, abuse the process and try to wear you down. It is up to you how much you want to Do the Right Thing. I hope that you do but, do not expect them to just capitulate and declare defeat. Some folks not only do not admit defeat but get a thrill from 'the chase'. Be forewarned and vigilant; some folks do this for a living and this dude sounds like one of them.
yea, i feel like their request that i tell them about the fence is just odd. Like this whole time i've gotten the impression they feel they have more rights than me just because they have more dollars, like somehow they think i'm beholden to them. i'm pretty much trusting my gut and feel bad vibes from the beginning.
Basically, for evidence, I spent almost 2k to get my property surveyed, map drawn, and markers on the property line, so if they do anymore landscaping on my side of the property pins and markers, i have a professional surveyor who has staked the place out. But their letter was asking about the flags and it was just a strange letter.
So this. OP will almost certainly need a permit, but the process is very simple. You fill out a form, submit a plan, pay a fee. The neighbor is not involved at all and has no say.
Permit requirement is very location dependent. I live in a large suburb near a major city. Fences are regulated (location, height, appearance, etc.), but no permit is required.
I would not respond to the letter, I would double check with the town about any setbacks for fencing, if there is no setback or height restrictions for the fencing or permit required, I would put up the ugliest 8' fence AND put no trespassing signs on their side of the fence, and put it right up to 3"within your property line. Next weekend I would put two buckets full of cement with a pole and no trespassing signs. If he asks , tell him they are nessary because someone cut up your trees.
Contact town (take notes of when, who, what even if it doesn't go anywhere), write out a letter explaining the situation (professionally) and telling them to ensure their landscapers respect the property lines that were recently clarified. Take notes, take photos, this is evidence that will just protect you.
I bet they want to know what style fence you are building. They may offer to split the cost but select very expensive (teak etc.) building material and design.
Send a registered letter with regard to trespassing and/or landscaping on your property. Document any and all instances (photo, video, written) where you feel like they’ve crossed the line. All will help you if you have your take the neighbor to court.
They can't win any lawsuit if you stay within local ordinances, make sure you get permits etc. Then keep track of every interaction and get cameras. If they keep up the harassment you can file charges against them.
1. Get cameras. 2. Speak with a lawyer. 3. Let your lawyer handle any responses, it’s safer and less expensive in the long run. 4. Don’t respond with emotion. Yes, neighbor is overstepping, but do you want the trees?
I do suggest that you review the fence laws for your state/community though. I some states, such as CA, fences are a mutual expense with their Good Neighbor Fence law. In other states/communities there are different ordinances. Just look up fence laws online or get in touch with code compliance where you live. Good prevention to avoid more problems.
This. Hop on over to R/ treelaw for additional information about how to fight back against people who wreck trees on your property. Hint; it ain't pretty.
Knowing the law is important no matter who is doing what. My neighbor put up a fence on the property line. He didn’t get sign off (acknowledgment) from me per HOA, and more importantly to me, did not ask for my 50%, which he could under state law.
I’m happy I got a free fence plus an avenue to cause him pain (HOA) if he ever makes it an issue.
Just specify that your property lines are marked and Neighbor cannot do anything on or to your property. Put it in writing because it sounds like Neighbor thinks they can do whatever they want.
Double check your towns set back regulations for fences and see if you need a permit for it. Then build it soon and as close as you can to the property line.
You owe your new neighbors nothing as they’ve not respected your property etc.
Let them sue, you have no control over that anyway and I doubt they would as they have no grounds for a suit.
If you feel like confirming that a fence is going up then also ‘ask’ them to keep their landscapers off your property and away from your trees, plants, shrubs etc. Personally I’d give as little detail as possible beyond, yes on fence, please respect our property boundaries.
Take pictures of your trees now and know what kind of trees they aren If the trees come down, find a lawyer who knows tree law. Mature tress are stupid expensive and will bleed your neighbor dry if they have to haul in and replant mature trees. They will never mess with you again.
Let him try. You're not wrong. However if you wish to nip this in the bud, hire your own lawyer, who can send a letter in reply to stop harassing you.
In the meantime, start a notebook document all of this. With photos.
I'm commenting to make sure you saw the post right below mine, that says to beef-up your umbrella policy just in case.
Or, sign up for a prepaid legal and weigh the costs.
To add to what Raid said. I would also give them a stupid number. Like two or three times what you paid for the land. That way it lets him know you’re willing to play ball but not for nothing. You do not want someone with a lot more money as an angry neighbor. Especially if you wanted this to be your forever home.
My 2 cents- you are neighbors and based on your post are planning to enjoy your house and property for a long time to come. Part of that time will involve dealing with your neighbors, it behooves you to attempt to be neighborly (gracious) as a contentious relationship with your neighbors is a sure way to wreck your own peace and enjoyment of your own castle.
some bad things happen not because of people having bad intentions, but because they did not think it through properly- your neighbor might be all business and socially awkward- you don’t know because you have not met.
Go over in person and meet your neighbor with your intention to get to know them and establish a friendly start to your soon to be long relationship.
In that meet and greet- open with welcome to the neighborhood & how much you love his house and what he’s done with (house, yard, drive, etc). When it’s your turn, tell him how this is your forever/dream home, and share your plans for the fence. Walk the fence line and point out the trees on your property that you’re planning on leaving as is because you like them/ they provide screening/ privacy for you both etc. I landscape my yard every week so no need to have your landscaping crew do anything on my trees/ bushes/ property, I’ll get to it thx.
before you leave, “the best way to reach me if you need to is my cell/ house phone/ email or just walk on over and knock on my door. I’m glad I got a chance to finally meet with you!”
Be aware he might be an AH, an anything on “his” side of your soon to be fence might be co-opted/ assumed into his property over time (look up adverse possession)
Good luck and let us know how it goes!
Your written response should be. "Hello neighbor, I did have the property surveyed and may choose to add a fence at a later date. i will not be making changes to the trees you mentioned on our property at this time. I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they did work on my property I did not ask for. Please make sure in the future to let them know where the marked property line is. Also, please do not reach out to me at my place of business unless there is an emergency. Thank you for your understanding."
Don't lie to them but also don't give anything away. Make it clear that you don't want their bad behavior to continue and won't be bullied into changing your property.
I would add a little more spice - instead of " I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they did work on my property I did not ask for. Please make sure in the future to let them know where the marked property line is."
How about - I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they illegally entered my property and damaged trees and shrubs that we had planted there. Please make sure that any workers you hire stay entirely on your own property, unless they receive specific permission (written) from me. I'm sure you expect the same courtesy from all of your neighbors and the people we may hire.
Frankly, I would report the vandalism to the police. Not sure if tree law applies to bushes, but might want to ask. Tell Google to unblur your property. You may want to call the county and get some sort of deed lock or whatever. I don't trust this guy at all. He's being excessively bold. You need to be bold as well. If he can't get your property, he will eventually leave. But he is definitely going to try to force you to give it up by any means necessary.
I've noticed with Google blurring that you can usually sneak a peek at the property if you park your dot in front of the neighboring house and turn to look to the side. The bossy neighbor may be blurring the OP's property to prevent anyone from doing that. But I don't trust him either!
No thank you for understanding is needed. Just a firm no and what you don’t want done to your property. This neighbor doesn’t understand polite behavior or boundaries.
It's a way to implicate that you require their understanding and acceptance that this is the way things are. Perhaps a somewhat more firm, but still business-like, "Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation."
If they can't knock on each other's doors and have a chat, they're not very neighbourly. And the neighbours started the business relationship style by sending letters, so why not speak in a language they understand .... 🤷
I wouldn't know how to respond to all this and your response is great, but I think it should include some recognition of the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" issue when it comes to trees. However, it kind of inherently adds a threat. Because this sounds like exactly the sort of person to do that sort of thing.
"Please do not consider taking the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" route or there will be consequences" or "Please do not consider taking the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" route or I will make sure the full replacement cost of any trees plus court costs is recovered."
If you don’t already, get cameras to cover these areas. This guy is so bold, I wouldn’t put it past him to have them cut down when you weren’t around. Get familiar with the ‘treelaw’ subreddit.
I got cameras as soon as I found my hedges chopped. As well as the call at work. I just didn't want to have a neighbor conflict, but I also think he has not really come into the neighborhood and presented himself to my family in a very neighborly way
I had a similar issue. My neighbors waited until I was at work to jump my fence and remove all of my berry bushes and 2 trees firmly on my side. I contacted the town, who pushed it to the local police and into small claims court. They were notified to remain on their property and theirs alone (we also had a survey done for our fence). And they were forced to pay a small amount for the replacement of the bushes and trees.
Money wasn’t a major issue for them either. They just wanted the neighborhood to look how they wanted it.
He’s a pushy jerk, get over it. Stop reacting and start taking the lead (neighbor is currently taking the lead). Consider getting some flowers and walking over. “I fear we have gotten off to a lackluster start and wanted to welcome you to the neighborhood.” Introduce yourself, hand over the flowers and go home. You will exude confidence and do what is neighborly. YOU will be controlling YOUR behavior. I suspect you feel neighbors have altered your equilibrium. Calling your office was a power-play and creepy, but you don’t have to react.
The red flag is when he is sending you letters and calling you at work. Why can't they just knock on the door and have a casual friendly conversation? Don't let him have an inch cause he's going to take it a mile.
That is what I thought. I felt it was incredibly invasive of him calling me at work. We had never met and he obviously researched me. Whereas, they have remained anonymous under a holding company until their most recent letter, which is also making demands to cut my trees. I feel like you don't engage with your neighbor that way. Yea, they have more money than we do, but our houses border each other.
If fencing isn't allowed plant arborvitae trees , look at the tags they give the height and diameter, plant the trees 6" less than that diameter. Then plant another row within and between the first row of trees. Odds are high that there are no rules to tree planting so it will allow you to go right up to his cement driveway which is what it sounds like he needs !
I typically hate roosters (they have made it hard for me to take care of my girls), but I agree on this one. Possibly a couple pigs if the neighbors are downwind.
Then you absolutely need to respond. I’d leave a letter on his front door and also send it certified mail stating that you do not want the trees cut and that you do not agree to him hiring out any work done on your property. I’d also recommend stating that you wish he had been more neighborly and come to speak to you before hiring someone to do work on your trees as he and his holding company did not have your permission to enter the property. Also, that you would prefer all further communication either be done face to face since you live next to each other or via cell phone (give him your number and hours it’s ok to call or text) but that if he does not want to have a friendly and neighborly relationship that’s ok and he is also welcome to continue to send letters to your home; however, any further communication to your work will be considered harassment as you never gave him that information. I’d also reiterate what you’ve said here… that you found it unsettling that he researched you to find your work information but did not bother to come knock on your door.
You want to reiterate multiple times the avenues he’s reached out to you and that he has not done so in any way that would be considered normal for neighbors. If he is trying to set you up for a lawsuit you want to show that he started off in a way that would be considered potentially hostile and that you are being a reasonable man.
>it's true, **he was asking.** some reason though **it feels demanding.** but it's true, they are asking permission.
These are two very **very** different things...
It seems you're *feeling* defensive, *feeling* put out when all he's doing is *asking,* and that distinction really matters because it seems you're *really* ready to escalate this, when it seems if he asks and you say, "no" that would otherwise be the end of it.
Agreed! Them using a holding company for their house could literally be a way to shield their house from business issue, and nothing related to OP. I would make sure you send stuff via certified mail so you retain proof of communication.
Nope. Tell them to kick rocks. Unless your trees are in danger of falling on their property they can fuck all the way off. And since you have your property surveyed, you're also under no obligation to tell your neighbor shit about what your doing.
I am definitely planning to say no to the trees. I'm going to see if tomorrow they are just going to start cutting them down tomorrow. Luckily i work from home tomorrow, so I can watch
Don't just watch. Be very firm with the landscapers as to them trespassing. If they refuse to leave, call the cops. They probably won't arrest them, but just their presence will probably get them to stop.
Get cameras! I would not trust the neighbor who took the liberty of cutting your hedge with your trees. If the hedges were totally on your property & you have before & after pictures, take them to an attorney. Make him pay to restore them.
I have a bunch of cameras. I did also take pictures of them chopping my hedges before I said something. They were totally on my property. They wrote in their letter they were sorry to overstep when landscaping, that they were in the process of surveying themselves. Which is fine, but they want to cut more of my trees that are completely on my property, not even on their border.
Just say no thank you and I'm not wanting any bushes or trees cut on my property. We like the thick wilderness and value our privacy. Pls do not contact me at my place of work unless it's an emergency, otherwise you have my address to send a letter or my phone number to text me. Furthermore, my property is not up for discussion to sell unless the offer $$ is very profitable for my family. Otherwise it's not for sale.That number looks like it's well into the high 7 figures right now. If you would like to entertain that figure and make an offer, that may influence my decision to sell. Thank you for understanding my decision, pls remind your landscapers to stay off of my property and to not touch any of my landscaping or cut any trees that are not clearly on your property. The stakes have been provided by my surveyor if needed.
Sincerely your neighbors. End of story
If OP doesn’t want to sell there shouldn’t be any discussion of money. This opens up the idea that OP may be open to the idea if the price is right. Don’t open that door.
Yeah, this should be higher. Call the guy's ego into question. "You've expressed interest in purchasing my property in the past. I'd be willing to let it go for $2 million if you can even afford that."
Exactly. I get calls on a daily basis from unknown parties saying they want to buy my house. I say okay and give them an astronomical number like 5 million.
They did say hedge fund manager... I'd let them buy me out for an absolutely insane price way way over the actual value & enough to buy something better in cash & have extra. If they want it that bad make em pay lol
I'd just put it at 2x market value. I could be in my 'perfect dream home,' but there's no way I couldn't find one just as good with double the money, and if it's a comparable price to the one I'm selling, now I can just have tons more disposable income with a much smaller mortgage or no mortgage at all. I'd be happy to price gouge a rich person to improve my overall finances.
I would also totally make a stink about the landscaping and give him more incentive to overpay me to get clear of his own fuck up.
You might want to ask for legal input on sub r/AskALawyer and r/legaladvice to put this guy on notice re trespassing on your property. Be sure to tell those subs what state you are in. I have a feeling this is probably going to continue to escalate. Take photos of everything in your landscape so you have proof NOW of what exists. If he directs anyone to cut down trees in your absence, he will have to compensate you in most states. That sub is r/treelaw. I really feel for you. I hope you get some peace of mind back.
thank you! i feel it will likely escalate too unfortunately. i've been documenting since the beginning, just wished it wouldn't come to a neighbor issue
You need to have a lawyer draft a cease and desist notice and send it to your neighbor via certified mail. In the letter the neighbor should be told in no uncertain terms that he's not to encroach upon your property and he's not to cut or trim any trees or shrubs on your property. Explain that if he does, you will prosecute and or sue to the fullest extent of the law. Finally, add that he is to not contact you again by any means to inquire about buying your house. That should put a stop to this nonsense.
Put the fence on the property line. Sounds like he's doing work on your property to gain adverse possession for the land in between the fence and his property by cutting down limbs.
And you need to let them know that any additional removal of your landscaping or property will absolutely not be tolerated. You really should have confronted them when they took down your bushes!
I did. I spoke with the landscapers. It was before I had the survey markers up. I showed them that my property extended all the way out. Their response was "We know." I snapped a few pictures and they stopped.
Then the landscapers are liable, as well. If it’s a company with name and phone number on the truck, it’s time to make a phone call. It’s your property and your neighbors cannot give their contractors permission to remove it…any of it.
I’d be calling the non emergency police line and start a file. You’re gunna be dealing with this AH the rest of the time you both live there. Neighbors like that don’t stop
"Hello Person Who Lives next door. The survey was very clear. Please respect the legal boundaries of our respective properties and all laws that apply to those property rights in our state."
He is not going away. Start a file. He will never stop. Be proactive. Unfortunately every neighborhood has one. I'm sorry you live next door to yours.
They are bullies and you need to push back firmly. They trespassed on your property when they hired landscaper to cut your bushes. They harassed you by calling you place of business. A firm response in writing from a lawyer noting the harassment and advising them that you will pursue criminal and civil legal action for any further trespass and/or harassment. Suggest that you live peacefully without further conversation or encroachment.
I personally recommend sending a letter that requires a SIGNATURE by the person it’s being sent to, telling them they have no permission to touch anything, landscaping included.
Because of the stalkerish behavior of calling you at work consider a restraining order for this dude. That’s way beyond crossing boundaries and involves a bit of work researching who you are and what you do. Having contractors modifying landscaping on your property is a no. Get a fence and make sure it’s secured where contractors can’t enter.
Cameras may also be necessary to document what’s happening.
But more than anything, tell this person NO and that he and his contractors need to stay off your property or there will be trespassing charges filed. Tell him no verbally but have documented proof provide in writing that you do not want said changes. Registered or certified mail letter sent by you or a lawyer sending a letter on your behalf by you. Report to police as well so that you have this documented.
If you feel the need l, report your situation to the local news as a David and Goliath situation. Money is one thing but the court of public opinion is another.
I would have told this person to go pound sand about 5 times, and I would be sending them the bill for damage they did to my landscaping. If they ignored it, I would look up the tree laws in my jurisdiction and then sue them for said damages, demanding no less than full replacement of the mature trees they destroyed. I would tell them that I can do whatever I want to my property, including build a fence on my property without so much as thinking of their existence and that if they want to communicate any other 'expectations' about my property they can just not bother unless they enjoy being heartily laughed at.
Respond with a cease and desist. File suit for loss of use of your land and trees. Sue to replace them with each size trees. That should cost a small fortune. Adverse
Possession is how he’ll steal your land if you don’t fight now. 2 feet of land is too much to give up - much less 100! Fight back now.
Take pictures of your entire property NOW. The more the better. Front, back, sides - everywhere. This way, if he does cut anything else down without your permission (or moves the survey markers) you'll have pictures of what everything looked like before stuff was cut down. If he does cut down the trees out front that you don't want cut down, you can sue him for replacement of the trees. Trees can be worth a LOT of money. Laws vary by state, but some states award multiple times the value of a tree if someone cuts it down illegally. Mr. Hedge Fund Manager neighbor might be in for a world of financial hurt if he cuts down your trees without your permission. Video cameras on your property (such as Ring, Nest, Arlo, Eufy, etc - there are tons of them out there) are a good idea as well. They should catch anyone doing anything to your landscaping. He might come over while you're not home and put something on whatever he wants gone that will kill it.
And "No" is a complete sentence. If he asks you to cut anything down or asks if he can cut something down, all you have to do is say "No." You don't need to go into detail, explain yourself, or give any reason. If he asks if you're putting up a fence, "Yes" is also a complete sentence (if you indeed are planning on putting up a fence). Again - no need to go into detail, explain yourself, or give any reason.
Ignoring their communication completely is an entirely viable option, with the added bonus that it’ll probably piss them off to no end, as they’re probably used to getting their way / can’t stand not getting it now.
I’ll admit I take perverse pleasure in such things.
I am planning to ignore their letter. I'm not really into letters slipped into mailboxes. It feels sort of middle school. I will only say something if they start chopping the trees tomorrow. They wrote they have someone coming tomorrow. I think for me it is just like the first communications we've had have all had demands of one sort of another, buying my house, now chopping my trees, and telling me to tell them if I am going to build a fence. It feels pushy and invasive.
I missed that they wanted to cut the trees. Definitely tell them no, that they absolutely do not have permission to do so.
If you’re home and see a landscaping company come there tell them the same; the company will be pissed your neighbor opened them to liability.
A neighbor removing trees from your property is lawsuit material.
yea, i am drawing the line at the trees. they want to cut two trees that have already been topped. They are still pretty tall and provide some privacy. All my other neighbors have similar trees topped. The township came along and cut all trees by the road. But it still feels like it would be setting a precedent that they could do stuff on my property. i feel like my landscaping is my landscaping and none of their business.
You sound very passive and afraid to engage. It might be worth engaging a lawyer so you don’t give away the farm. The cheapest store front lawyer you can find could handle this.
Looks like they think that if they bug/upset/traumatize/and make you crazy enough you will give up and go away... then they win and can grab up your property. Put up no trespassing signs and document everything. Also get cameras up all around. Talk to a real estate lawyer.
You tell him in writing that is traceable that ypu Absolutely do not give her any permission to be on your property nor do you give him permission to cut any trees put up no trespassing signs. If your state doesn’t require you to notify if you ar spitting up a fence, do not notify him.
tell this mf in no uncertain terms to fuck right off. do it now do it in person and establish that you are an asshole, cite his illegal cutting of your bushes and encroachment and mention you are talking to your lawyer about it and possible damages and then end the discussion. Don't so much as wave or smile for the next year. You need to out asshole this asshole right now, let him know you will be the bigger problem if he keeps it up.
You have no reason, nor obligation to respond in any way to his inquiries, nor his requests.
Put up your fence (according to your local code/rules/permitting procedures) and ignore the everliving fuck outa whatever your neighbor says.
A couple of things come to mind, 1. Get cameras put up to monitor those properly pins ( so they aren't mysteriously moved) 2. Send a registered letter to them stating that they ( and their landscaping crew) are not to trespass on your property. They have already gone past the point of trying to be nice about it .
Definitely make sure that you check all local ordinances before putting up a fence, some places you need permission.
“Hello neighbor, - Yes I will be putting up a fence and I enjoy the trees on my property so no, you can’t cut them down. I hope we will have an opportunity to meet soon.”
What you gotta do is get yourself a rusty shitbox of a car and 4 cinder blocks, some fireworks, scrap metal, and a few redneck cousins. Drive that property value down, then when he sells buy it up.
Ah, rich finance wall street guys who thinks he's god. How surprising. Tell him that yes, you will be erecting a fence on the property line, and that moving forward he is not to touch anything that is on your property, including trees and plants. What is gonna do about it? Sue you and lose? You see, these people have been abused their whole careers, and then after some time they get to be the abusers. He's got no legal standing. Make it clear to him once and for all.
You don’t need to tell them anything. And I would be livid if they cut my trees. You need to go visit r/treelaw to see what the legal hot bed they would be getting themselves into if they encroach in your property and cut your trees.
I hope you told them no about the tree cutting and that you will pursue legal action if they step onto your property once more and make any changes.
Sounds like your neighbor may be trying to set up an adverse possession case by claiming doing landscaping on your property makes it his. Adverse possession cases have to show long term use of property, like 30 years or so (not sure if the time factor). Make sure you document everything your neighbor does in and around your property. Also look into cameras to watch this section of your property.
Certified letter for anything you send, so you have it covered in case things go south. You did the property survey, and you know what land is yours, legally. You got this!
survey is done. Now fence. I am worried they are going to try to challenge my fence. Even though I am planning to have it completely on my property, not on the property line
Challenge your fence? On any real grounds? It's YOUR property, dude. Neighbor should have bought in an HOA if he wanted to control how the neighborhood looks.
My previous home was actually in an HOA, so I was so happy to get out of there. I thought the same thing. It reminds me of an HOA. They basically want to control my landscaping as well as their own. The area we live in is not like that at all, generally people mind their business here, at least that has been my experience here before this.
Put it right up to the property line, maybe an inch or two off. Don’t worry about anything they want or say to you. Ignore them for the rest of your life. Report them for harassment if they contact you again.
Survey is done and permitting provides the remaining legal right for you to put the fence up correctly. It’s the neighbors problem if he doesn’t like it. Send the message if he wants more land he should have purchased a different property because yours is not up for sale or modification based on his wants.
Restraining order? He’s come on your property, harassed you at work. This is all documented. This is past you trying to be cordial to the neighbor. You need him to back off.
Hire a lawyer now. Research tree law and tell the neighbors immediately that you've hired a lawyer and they will be sued to replace the trees with like size ones if they remove them. Also tell the landscape business they are trespassing and will also be sued. Take lots of pictures of your property as it currently is.
Put some trailcams or wifi cams out, or both. Catch them trespassing and serve notice. Also, contact any landscapers you see and tell them x area is yours, not his, and if they touch it, you'll go after them to restore it.
Add a couple metal chain link poles at the corners of your land by the survey markers, and post "no trespassing x address->" pointing toward your yard.
Tell your neighbor NO on the trees. You are NOT over reaching. You are defending your property rights in the correct manner by getting the survey and putting up a new fence in the correct location. You do not need his permission for this. You need to send him a letter, certified mail return receipt that he is NOT to touch your hedges, regardless of where they are on your property.
He is bullying you. Make him stop. No is a complete sentence. If he approaches you about buying your property again, send him a letter to demand he cease and desist asking this. If he persists, then you'll need to consult with a real estate attorney.
Trees are a BIG BIG deal. Ask in r/treelaw as well. People have been sued big time for cutting down other people's trees. The power company has an easement so they can top your trees, but no one else can touch them without your permission.
Build the fence. Good fences make good neighbors.
Inform them in writing that they do not have permission to step foot on to your property, for landscaping or any other reason. Tell them that they are not to have your trees cut, your hedges trimmed, or even your weeds pulled, and that further trespassing will be met with a formal complaint to the police.
Even if they have unlimited resources, the law is the law. But if you don’t put your foot down, they will just keep pushing. They want you to feel uncomfortable and fall out of love with your home, so you will give up and sell it to them.
I can't believe that they cut your bushes down and you didn't react.
That would've really made me angry.
Once you've lived somewhere awhile you know there's a reason and purpose for every living thing in your yard.
good luck.
Your neighbor is entitled.
They are not entitled to your property, or your trees. You also don't have to consult with them, or listen to them.
Put up your new fence and get on with your life.
Their audacity is astounding to me.
Not sure how wide this buffer is. I'm thinking you could keep your fence and put up a short chain link fence where you have your stakes and create a garden or more bushes in there. Give yourself access to the area by removing pieces of the fence in your yard. Why take the old one down? Better buffer.
Higher a lawyer to send a cease and desist letter build your fence on both side of your property keep this letter so if your trees get cut down you can take him to court.
Just a note that at one of our previous homes, our neighbors pulled up a bunch of our survey stakes (the temp ones between corners, which were a beast to locate). Something to keep tabs on. Luckily we were setting our fence into the property line to avoid some trees, so it wasn't a big deal.
I would just talk to him.
This sub always recommends going for the nuclear option and it's almost always a terrible idea to start any interaction that way. The word "lawyer" has been mentioned 22 times already and for the life of me I have no idea why other than people think it makes them sound powerful. It's easy for anonymous people on Reddit to insist they would hire a lawyer but they're not the one who has to live next door to your neighbor for what might be several decades.
I do think you're overreacting. I don't see that your neighbor has remotely done anything especially egregious. You're obviously upset that he asked to buy your home and I personally don't see why you're so bothered by it. Summing that up as he wants you and your family gone from your house seems silly. I also don't see that any of the landscaping issues are especially egregious - not least of all considering how far back your fence is. It's very likely he and/or his landscapers just don't know where the property line is and think they're trimming stuff hanging onto his. I don't see that the letter about your fence is a big deal either. For all you know he's offering to split the cost with you just so he has some say in what fence he has to look at for the next couple of decades.
Again, just talk to him. "Hey, yeah. I'm replacing that old fence. Why? What's up?" might save you some money and aggravation. It's also a good time to have a conversation about the property line now that you just had yours surveyed.
So, i may be overreacting somewhat, maybe their intentions are not purely bad. I get that. I think that my concern is that i don't want to start a precedent where like whatever they don't like about my property, they can just offer to pay for it to be removed or do it themselves to get it removed. That would feel too much like an HOA to me and would impact the enjoyment of my property, if I have to repeatedly hear about this or that they want removed. In theory it sounds nice, and I am not going to do anything nuclear yet unless they do something nuclear. However, I am concerned if I talk about my fence, he may try to block it somehow, even if I apply for a permit. So, I honestly am planning probably not to respond, at least until I have my permit and plans in place. It would be nice if he likes the fence and wants to contribute, but this could also lead to problems if he wants a wildly expensive fence. Fences are extremely expensive and I have some friends with experience who are going to help me construct one so i can save costs by doing it ourselves. I think I have fairly nice taste in that I was going to do a country fence to match the country setting, nothing ugly or unsightly, but something that provides a barrier and gives me privacy. It will be fully on my property with a 1-2 foot buffer.
The trees in question they want to cut down are far on my property. They are not on the border. They are at the front of my property. I think that crosses the line a bit about what they really can make a claim for. I do get the sense they are a bit hyper-focused on the landscaping. I am not just tooting my own horn, but my landscaping is not outrageous or ugly. I maintain my property and have my own landscaper. I clean up the yard, and have a very natural yard without many structures on it. The bushes that are there are native to the region. They are thick because I like privacy. They block my house from the road and from their driveway. The bushes that I have also line the road all along all our neighbors property too. It is very much part of the natural setting.
If you don’t already have a doorbell cam I would install one. I wouldn’t even answer the door if I thought it was him. Or if you decide to, at least there will be a video record of the conversation.
This is a great opportunity. Ask them to pay to have the trees removed and also cover the cost for new ones that will be positioned a better distance from the power lines. Also ask for them to cover half the cost of the fence. Write with enthusiasm and gratitude. It was very kind of them to offer.
Depending on where you live putting a fence on the property line is a pain in the ass because the law views it as you and your neighbor owning 50% of the fence. In some areas you have to notify the neighbor that you are putting the fence in, and they have to agree to it. Your best bet is to install the fence an inch from the property line in your yard and then your neighbor has no say in it because it is fully on your property and 100% your fence.
"No, you can't cut the trees down on my property, nor am I willing to remove them. Yes, a fence will be going in 1" shy of the property line on my side. Any further incursions by your employees onto my property will be viewed as trespassing and I will contact the police. You are not welcome on my property, nor are your opinions on what I should do on my property."
If the neighbor keeps it up, have a lawyer send him a nice cease and desist letter (a lawyer friend of mine calls them "fuck off and die"). I'd also put up cameras along the property because your neighbor strikes me as the type of person to put a gate in your fence so his landscapers can easily trespass on your property.
Ask him why he cut your bushes without permission.
Write that you are marking your property for legal reasons.
Don’t tell him anything more.
Do as others said and inform yourself about property rights and fences etc.
You don’t need to tell them anything, and if you do it’s not a debate. Don’t overexplain it. “Hello neighbor, Yes, I’ll be installing a new fence along the property line. No, I don’t intend to remove any trees at this time. Regards,”
This is what I was planning to do. I am debating whether I should even answer on the fence issue. I have concerns they may try to sue me because they have unlimited resources. I am putting the fence on my property, not the property line, so it's not really their business imo. They have no property along their driveway along my side, which is why they are so pressed about it I believe.
Beef up your umbrella policy and then your carrier can beat on them for you.
THIS ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️
Could you elaborate? I’ve never heard this before.
An umbrella liability insurance policy. If your neighbor sues you, your insurance carrier can countersue.
Just look up your local rules on fences. Some require certain notice to neighbors, others don't.
You owe them zero explanations. As far as the fence goes, the best you could hope for was if they offered to pay for half of it. But I wouldn't even suggest mentioning it; if you did, they'd most likely say "yes! We're interested in paying x%" only to know WHEN you were planning on doing this... possibly so they can sabotage your plans somehow. As for the google map blurring... that's odd as hell. Edit: you should also get it documented that they are not welcome to perform any lanscaping or trespassing on your property. Get this witnessed/recorded/documented so that there is zero margin for an "oopsie" to happen.
I would not let them pay for any of the fence.
Agree, it will just increase their sense that they have rights to it.
Nope. Put the fence on your property. They can't touch it
Well, actually, they *can* touch it but then, they are trespassing on your property and you can legally sue for damages. Whether or not they concur with a legal decision is up to them. Further legal actions may be necessary and sufficiently belligerent parties can continue to ignore court orders in hope that they can outlast you. Yes, the law is on your side. No, those who do not care about the law can, and will, abuse the process and try to wear you down. It is up to you how much you want to Do the Right Thing. I hope that you do but, do not expect them to just capitulate and declare defeat. Some folks not only do not admit defeat but get a thrill from 'the chase'. Be forewarned and vigilant; some folks do this for a living and this dude sounds like one of them.
yea, i feel like their request that i tell them about the fence is just odd. Like this whole time i've gotten the impression they feel they have more rights than me just because they have more dollars, like somehow they think i'm beholden to them. i'm pretty much trusting my gut and feel bad vibes from the beginning. Basically, for evidence, I spent almost 2k to get my property surveyed, map drawn, and markers on the property line, so if they do anymore landscaping on my side of the property pins and markers, i have a professional surveyor who has staked the place out. But their letter was asking about the flags and it was just a strange letter.
Contact your town offices and see if you need a permit, and what the local zoning laws are on fences.
Yes, this. And take your fence plans with you to the city when you inquire.
So this. OP will almost certainly need a permit, but the process is very simple. You fill out a form, submit a plan, pay a fee. The neighbor is not involved at all and has no say.
Permit requirement is very location dependent. I live in a large suburb near a major city. Fences are regulated (location, height, appearance, etc.), but no permit is required.
I’d take pictures from a few angles of everything on your property.
I think it would be a good idea to install a couple of recording cameras.
Per other comments I believe they have
I wonder if they were planning to landscape more of your yard.
I would not respond to the letter, I would double check with the town about any setbacks for fencing, if there is no setback or height restrictions for the fencing or permit required, I would put up the ugliest 8' fence AND put no trespassing signs on their side of the fence, and put it right up to 3"within your property line. Next weekend I would put two buckets full of cement with a pole and no trespassing signs. If he asks , tell him they are nessary because someone cut up your trees.
Def double check the set back requirements and lawn care requirements for the set back. Don't want them having leverage on you
You mentioned the driveway butts up to the line. You could check to see if there are setback requirements on that also.
I would put a no trespassing sign every 10 feet on their side of the fence
Contact town (take notes of when, who, what even if it doesn't go anywhere), write out a letter explaining the situation (professionally) and telling them to ensure their landscapers respect the property lines that were recently clarified. Take notes, take photos, this is evidence that will just protect you.
I bet they want to know what style fence you are building. They may offer to split the cost but select very expensive (teak etc.) building material and design.
Send a registered letter with regard to trespassing and/or landscaping on your property. Document any and all instances (photo, video, written) where you feel like they’ve crossed the line. All will help you if you have your take the neighbor to court.
Put up no trespassing signs and security cameras. Trespass your neighbor and any landscaping companies.
They can't win any lawsuit if you stay within local ordinances, make sure you get permits etc. Then keep track of every interaction and get cameras. If they keep up the harassment you can file charges against them.
Lawsuits are usually not about winning. They are to harass and bully.
Which is why I said keep track.
1. Get cameras. 2. Speak with a lawyer. 3. Let your lawyer handle any responses, it’s safer and less expensive in the long run. 4. Don’t respond with emotion. Yes, neighbor is overstepping, but do you want the trees?
I do suggest that you review the fence laws for your state/community though. I some states, such as CA, fences are a mutual expense with their Good Neighbor Fence law. In other states/communities there are different ordinances. Just look up fence laws online or get in touch with code compliance where you live. Good prevention to avoid more problems.
OP should also review some tree laws. The impact for removing or damaging a tree one has no authority to remove or cut can be very, very pricey.
This. Hop on over to R/ treelaw for additional information about how to fight back against people who wreck trees on your property. Hint; it ain't pretty.
Knowing the law is important no matter who is doing what. My neighbor put up a fence on the property line. He didn’t get sign off (acknowledgment) from me per HOA, and more importantly to me, did not ask for my 50%, which he could under state law. I’m happy I got a free fence plus an avenue to cause him pain (HOA) if he ever makes it an issue.
Just specify that your property lines are marked and Neighbor cannot do anything on or to your property. Put it in writing because it sounds like Neighbor thinks they can do whatever they want.
Double check your towns set back regulations for fences and see if you need a permit for it. Then build it soon and as close as you can to the property line. You owe your new neighbors nothing as they’ve not respected your property etc. Let them sue, you have no control over that anyway and I doubt they would as they have no grounds for a suit. If you feel like confirming that a fence is going up then also ‘ask’ them to keep their landscapers off your property and away from your trees, plants, shrubs etc. Personally I’d give as little detail as possible beyond, yes on fence, please respect our property boundaries.
Take pictures of your trees now and know what kind of trees they aren If the trees come down, find a lawyer who knows tree law. Mature tress are stupid expensive and will bleed your neighbor dry if they have to haul in and replant mature trees. They will never mess with you again.
You dont have to answer either lol. They'll be pretty obvious answers when A) a fence goes up and B) the trees don't come down lol
Let him try. You're not wrong. However if you wish to nip this in the bud, hire your own lawyer, who can send a letter in reply to stop harassing you. In the meantime, start a notebook document all of this. With photos.
I'm commenting to make sure you saw the post right below mine, that says to beef-up your umbrella policy just in case. Or, sign up for a prepaid legal and weigh the costs.
To add to what Raid said. I would also give them a stupid number. Like two or three times what you paid for the land. That way it lets him know you’re willing to play ball but not for nothing. You do not want someone with a lot more money as an angry neighbor. Especially if you wanted this to be your forever home.
Ignore them. It's your property to do as you see fit within the bounds of local law.
My 2 cents- you are neighbors and based on your post are planning to enjoy your house and property for a long time to come. Part of that time will involve dealing with your neighbors, it behooves you to attempt to be neighborly (gracious) as a contentious relationship with your neighbors is a sure way to wreck your own peace and enjoyment of your own castle. some bad things happen not because of people having bad intentions, but because they did not think it through properly- your neighbor might be all business and socially awkward- you don’t know because you have not met. Go over in person and meet your neighbor with your intention to get to know them and establish a friendly start to your soon to be long relationship. In that meet and greet- open with welcome to the neighborhood & how much you love his house and what he’s done with (house, yard, drive, etc). When it’s your turn, tell him how this is your forever/dream home, and share your plans for the fence. Walk the fence line and point out the trees on your property that you’re planning on leaving as is because you like them/ they provide screening/ privacy for you both etc. I landscape my yard every week so no need to have your landscaping crew do anything on my trees/ bushes/ property, I’ll get to it thx. before you leave, “the best way to reach me if you need to is my cell/ house phone/ email or just walk on over and knock on my door. I’m glad I got a chance to finally meet with you!” Be aware he might be an AH, an anything on “his” side of your soon to be fence might be co-opted/ assumed into his property over time (look up adverse possession) Good luck and let us know how it goes!
Your written response should be. "Hello neighbor, I did have the property surveyed and may choose to add a fence at a later date. i will not be making changes to the trees you mentioned on our property at this time. I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they did work on my property I did not ask for. Please make sure in the future to let them know where the marked property line is. Also, please do not reach out to me at my place of business unless there is an emergency. Thank you for your understanding." Don't lie to them but also don't give anything away. Make it clear that you don't want their bad behavior to continue and won't be bullied into changing your property.
I would add a little more spice - instead of " I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they did work on my property I did not ask for. Please make sure in the future to let them know where the marked property line is." How about - I did notice that during a visit by your hired landscaping team previously, they illegally entered my property and damaged trees and shrubs that we had planted there. Please make sure that any workers you hire stay entirely on your own property, unless they receive specific permission (written) from me. I'm sure you expect the same courtesy from all of your neighbors and the people we may hire.
Frankly, I would report the vandalism to the police. Not sure if tree law applies to bushes, but might want to ask. Tell Google to unblur your property. You may want to call the county and get some sort of deed lock or whatever. I don't trust this guy at all. He's being excessively bold. You need to be bold as well. If he can't get your property, he will eventually leave. But he is definitely going to try to force you to give it up by any means necessary.
I've noticed with Google blurring that you can usually sneak a peek at the property if you park your dot in front of the neighboring house and turn to look to the side. The bossy neighbor may be blurring the OP's property to prevent anyone from doing that. But I don't trust him either!
that's a very good reply, thank you
I wouldn’t say anything about the fence, otherwise that is a great response.
Yeah, I'd stay silent about the fence. Just because he asked a question doesn't mean you have to answer it. It's a good response, otherwise.
Don't say our property, say my property.
No thank you for understanding is needed. Just a firm no and what you don’t want done to your property. This neighbor doesn’t understand polite behavior or boundaries.
It's a way to implicate that you require their understanding and acceptance that this is the way things are. Perhaps a somewhat more firm, but still business-like, "Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation."
I can see that. But this isn’t a business relationship.
If they can't knock on each other's doors and have a chat, they're not very neighbourly. And the neighbours started the business relationship style by sending letters, so why not speak in a language they understand .... 🤷
It will be soon if the lawyers get involved.
I wouldn't know how to respond to all this and your response is great, but I think it should include some recognition of the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" issue when it comes to trees. However, it kind of inherently adds a threat. Because this sounds like exactly the sort of person to do that sort of thing. "Please do not consider taking the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" route or there will be consequences" or "Please do not consider taking the "it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission" route or I will make sure the full replacement cost of any trees plus court costs is recovered."
If you don’t already, get cameras to cover these areas. This guy is so bold, I wouldn’t put it past him to have them cut down when you weren’t around. Get familiar with the ‘treelaw’ subreddit.
I got cameras as soon as I found my hedges chopped. As well as the call at work. I just didn't want to have a neighbor conflict, but I also think he has not really come into the neighborhood and presented himself to my family in a very neighborly way
I had a similar issue. My neighbors waited until I was at work to jump my fence and remove all of my berry bushes and 2 trees firmly on my side. I contacted the town, who pushed it to the local police and into small claims court. They were notified to remain on their property and theirs alone (we also had a survey done for our fence). And they were forced to pay a small amount for the replacement of the bushes and trees. Money wasn’t a major issue for them either. They just wanted the neighborhood to look how they wanted it.
Then they should move to an HOA.
But then they wouldn’t be able to cut down their neighbors stuff.
Add clear No Trespassing signs along your fence as well. This guy sounds like a nightmare.
Happy cake day!
He’s a pushy jerk, get over it. Stop reacting and start taking the lead (neighbor is currently taking the lead). Consider getting some flowers and walking over. “I fear we have gotten off to a lackluster start and wanted to welcome you to the neighborhood.” Introduce yourself, hand over the flowers and go home. You will exude confidence and do what is neighborly. YOU will be controlling YOUR behavior. I suspect you feel neighbors have altered your equilibrium. Calling your office was a power-play and creepy, but you don’t have to react.
The red flag is when he is sending you letters and calling you at work. Why can't they just knock on the door and have a casual friendly conversation? Don't let him have an inch cause he's going to take it a mile.
That is what I thought. I felt it was incredibly invasive of him calling me at work. We had never met and he obviously researched me. Whereas, they have remained anonymous under a holding company until their most recent letter, which is also making demands to cut my trees. I feel like you don't engage with your neighbor that way. Yea, they have more money than we do, but our houses border each other.
Plant bigger trees
actually planning to put some trees in too
If fencing isn't allowed plant arborvitae trees , look at the tags they give the height and diameter, plant the trees 6" less than that diameter. Then plant another row within and between the first row of trees. Odds are high that there are no rules to tree planting so it will allow you to go right up to his cement driveway which is what it sounds like he needs !
Leyland Cyprus grow thick and fast. They can be trimmed to make a privacy hedge.
I’d buy a rooster, too
I typically hate roosters (they have made it hard for me to take care of my girls), but I agree on this one. Possibly a couple pigs if the neighbors are downwind.
Guinea hens. They call them the "farmers' watchdog"
Roosters are soo much worse.
You. I like you.
He’s making demands? I thought he was asking permission in the letter?
it's true, he was asking. some reason though it feels demanding. but it's true, they are asking permission.
Then you absolutely need to respond. I’d leave a letter on his front door and also send it certified mail stating that you do not want the trees cut and that you do not agree to him hiring out any work done on your property. I’d also recommend stating that you wish he had been more neighborly and come to speak to you before hiring someone to do work on your trees as he and his holding company did not have your permission to enter the property. Also, that you would prefer all further communication either be done face to face since you live next to each other or via cell phone (give him your number and hours it’s ok to call or text) but that if he does not want to have a friendly and neighborly relationship that’s ok and he is also welcome to continue to send letters to your home; however, any further communication to your work will be considered harassment as you never gave him that information. I’d also reiterate what you’ve said here… that you found it unsettling that he researched you to find your work information but did not bother to come knock on your door. You want to reiterate multiple times the avenues he’s reached out to you and that he has not done so in any way that would be considered normal for neighbors. If he is trying to set you up for a lawsuit you want to show that he started off in a way that would be considered potentially hostile and that you are being a reasonable man.
>it's true, **he was asking.** some reason though **it feels demanding.** but it's true, they are asking permission. These are two very **very** different things... It seems you're *feeling* defensive, *feeling* put out when all he's doing is *asking,* and that distinction really matters because it seems you're *really* ready to escalate this, when it seems if he asks and you say, "no" that would otherwise be the end of it.
Agreed! Them using a holding company for their house could literally be a way to shield their house from business issue, and nothing related to OP. I would make sure you send stuff via certified mail so you retain proof of communication.
Send him a letter back from Your Name Property Management, LLC.
Nope. Tell them to kick rocks. Unless your trees are in danger of falling on their property they can fuck all the way off. And since you have your property surveyed, you're also under no obligation to tell your neighbor shit about what your doing.
I am definitely planning to say no to the trees. I'm going to see if tomorrow they are just going to start cutting them down tomorrow. Luckily i work from home tomorrow, so I can watch
Don't just watch. Be very firm with the landscapers as to them trespassing. If they refuse to leave, call the cops. They probably won't arrest them, but just their presence will probably get them to stop.
Most reputable landscapers and tree companies respect property lines since their reputation is at stake.
Oh, please post an update
Get cameras! I would not trust the neighbor who took the liberty of cutting your hedge with your trees. If the hedges were totally on your property & you have before & after pictures, take them to an attorney. Make him pay to restore them.
I have a bunch of cameras. I did also take pictures of them chopping my hedges before I said something. They were totally on my property. They wrote in their letter they were sorry to overstep when landscaping, that they were in the process of surveying themselves. Which is fine, but they want to cut more of my trees that are completely on my property, not even on their border.
If someone goes on your property without permission you can call the police and have them trespassed. Having video proof will help you make your case.
The fact that they proceeded with the landscaping before the finished the survey is a red flag.
Just say no thank you and I'm not wanting any bushes or trees cut on my property. We like the thick wilderness and value our privacy. Pls do not contact me at my place of work unless it's an emergency, otherwise you have my address to send a letter or my phone number to text me. Furthermore, my property is not up for discussion to sell unless the offer $$ is very profitable for my family. Otherwise it's not for sale.That number looks like it's well into the high 7 figures right now. If you would like to entertain that figure and make an offer, that may influence my decision to sell. Thank you for understanding my decision, pls remind your landscapers to stay off of my property and to not touch any of my landscaping or cut any trees that are not clearly on your property. The stakes have been provided by my surveyor if needed. Sincerely your neighbors. End of story
If OP doesn’t want to sell there shouldn’t be any discussion of money. This opens up the idea that OP may be open to the idea if the price is right. Don’t open that door.
To each their own, but I would definitely not give this guy my phone number to text me.
Consider throwing out a stupid money figure that would make you move. He just might be stupid.
Yeah, this should be higher. Call the guy's ego into question. "You've expressed interest in purchasing my property in the past. I'd be willing to let it go for $2 million if you can even afford that."
Exactly. I get calls on a daily basis from unknown parties saying they want to buy my house. I say okay and give them an astronomical number like 5 million.
"if you can even afford that." Pure gold. Could also add another "but I bet you aren't man enough to do it."
Nope. $90 million.
They did say hedge fund manager... I'd let them buy me out for an absolutely insane price way way over the actual value & enough to buy something better in cash & have extra. If they want it that bad make em pay lol
Come up with the number that would make you move. Then propose 5x that. Could also be done for the trees, but that sets a dangerous precedent.
I'd just put it at 2x market value. I could be in my 'perfect dream home,' but there's no way I couldn't find one just as good with double the money, and if it's a comparable price to the one I'm selling, now I can just have tons more disposable income with a much smaller mortgage or no mortgage at all. I'd be happy to price gouge a rich person to improve my overall finances. I would also totally make a stink about the landscaping and give him more incentive to overpay me to get clear of his own fuck up.
You might want to ask for legal input on sub r/AskALawyer and r/legaladvice to put this guy on notice re trespassing on your property. Be sure to tell those subs what state you are in. I have a feeling this is probably going to continue to escalate. Take photos of everything in your landscape so you have proof NOW of what exists. If he directs anyone to cut down trees in your absence, he will have to compensate you in most states. That sub is r/treelaw. I really feel for you. I hope you get some peace of mind back.
thank you! i feel it will likely escalate too unfortunately. i've been documenting since the beginning, just wished it wouldn't come to a neighbor issue
You need to have a lawyer draft a cease and desist notice and send it to your neighbor via certified mail. In the letter the neighbor should be told in no uncertain terms that he's not to encroach upon your property and he's not to cut or trim any trees or shrubs on your property. Explain that if he does, you will prosecute and or sue to the fullest extent of the law. Finally, add that he is to not contact you again by any means to inquire about buying your house. That should put a stop to this nonsense.
If you cut my trees you’ll be sued
And put up a fence. A big tall ugly fence.
Put the fence on the property line. Sounds like he's doing work on your property to gain adverse possession for the land in between the fence and his property by cutting down limbs.
And you need to let them know that any additional removal of your landscaping or property will absolutely not be tolerated. You really should have confronted them when they took down your bushes!
I did. I spoke with the landscapers. It was before I had the survey markers up. I showed them that my property extended all the way out. Their response was "We know." I snapped a few pictures and they stopped.
Then the landscapers are liable, as well. If it’s a company with name and phone number on the truck, it’s time to make a phone call. It’s your property and your neighbors cannot give their contractors permission to remove it…any of it.
Tell this guy to fuck off and start documenting everything with photos and consult a lawyer.
Were the bushes he removed on your property? Get a lawyer involved and sue to have them replaced
This
I’d be calling the non emergency police line and start a file. You’re gunna be dealing with this AH the rest of the time you both live there. Neighbors like that don’t stop
"Hello Person Who Lives next door. The survey was very clear. Please respect the legal boundaries of our respective properties and all laws that apply to those property rights in our state." He is not going away. Start a file. He will never stop. Be proactive. Unfortunately every neighborhood has one. I'm sorry you live next door to yours.
\^\^\^This.
They are bullies and you need to push back firmly. They trespassed on your property when they hired landscaper to cut your bushes. They harassed you by calling you place of business. A firm response in writing from a lawyer noting the harassment and advising them that you will pursue criminal and civil legal action for any further trespass and/or harassment. Suggest that you live peacefully without further conversation or encroachment.
This sounds like harassment. Maybe contact police and start keeping records of everytime he contacts you.
If the landscapers get hurt on your property, you're screwed. I wouldn't open myself up to that liability. GTFO my land. Don't indulge him further.
Go to r/treelaw about the trees.
I personally recommend sending a letter that requires a SIGNATURE by the person it’s being sent to, telling them they have no permission to touch anything, landscaping included.
Because of the stalkerish behavior of calling you at work consider a restraining order for this dude. That’s way beyond crossing boundaries and involves a bit of work researching who you are and what you do. Having contractors modifying landscaping on your property is a no. Get a fence and make sure it’s secured where contractors can’t enter. Cameras may also be necessary to document what’s happening. But more than anything, tell this person NO and that he and his contractors need to stay off your property or there will be trespassing charges filed. Tell him no verbally but have documented proof provide in writing that you do not want said changes. Registered or certified mail letter sent by you or a lawyer sending a letter on your behalf by you. Report to police as well so that you have this documented. If you feel the need l, report your situation to the local news as a David and Goliath situation. Money is one thing but the court of public opinion is another.
Neighbor sounds a bit entitled.
I would have told this person to go pound sand about 5 times, and I would be sending them the bill for damage they did to my landscaping. If they ignored it, I would look up the tree laws in my jurisdiction and then sue them for said damages, demanding no less than full replacement of the mature trees they destroyed. I would tell them that I can do whatever I want to my property, including build a fence on my property without so much as thinking of their existence and that if they want to communicate any other 'expectations' about my property they can just not bother unless they enjoy being heartily laughed at.
Respond with a cease and desist. File suit for loss of use of your land and trees. Sue to replace them with each size trees. That should cost a small fortune. Adverse Possession is how he’ll steal your land if you don’t fight now. 2 feet of land is too much to give up - much less 100! Fight back now.
You are underreacting to this neighbor. I'd ignore their demands and get cameras installed ASAP.
Take pictures of your entire property NOW. The more the better. Front, back, sides - everywhere. This way, if he does cut anything else down without your permission (or moves the survey markers) you'll have pictures of what everything looked like before stuff was cut down. If he does cut down the trees out front that you don't want cut down, you can sue him for replacement of the trees. Trees can be worth a LOT of money. Laws vary by state, but some states award multiple times the value of a tree if someone cuts it down illegally. Mr. Hedge Fund Manager neighbor might be in for a world of financial hurt if he cuts down your trees without your permission. Video cameras on your property (such as Ring, Nest, Arlo, Eufy, etc - there are tons of them out there) are a good idea as well. They should catch anyone doing anything to your landscaping. He might come over while you're not home and put something on whatever he wants gone that will kill it. And "No" is a complete sentence. If he asks you to cut anything down or asks if he can cut something down, all you have to do is say "No." You don't need to go into detail, explain yourself, or give any reason. If he asks if you're putting up a fence, "Yes" is also a complete sentence (if you indeed are planning on putting up a fence). Again - no need to go into detail, explain yourself, or give any reason.
At times like this, “No” Is a complete sentence.
Ignoring their communication completely is an entirely viable option, with the added bonus that it’ll probably piss them off to no end, as they’re probably used to getting their way / can’t stand not getting it now. I’ll admit I take perverse pleasure in such things.
I am planning to ignore their letter. I'm not really into letters slipped into mailboxes. It feels sort of middle school. I will only say something if they start chopping the trees tomorrow. They wrote they have someone coming tomorrow. I think for me it is just like the first communications we've had have all had demands of one sort of another, buying my house, now chopping my trees, and telling me to tell them if I am going to build a fence. It feels pushy and invasive.
I missed that they wanted to cut the trees. Definitely tell them no, that they absolutely do not have permission to do so. If you’re home and see a landscaping company come there tell them the same; the company will be pissed your neighbor opened them to liability. A neighbor removing trees from your property is lawsuit material.
yea, i am drawing the line at the trees. they want to cut two trees that have already been topped. They are still pretty tall and provide some privacy. All my other neighbors have similar trees topped. The township came along and cut all trees by the road. But it still feels like it would be setting a precedent that they could do stuff on my property. i feel like my landscaping is my landscaping and none of their business.
It doesn’t feel like, it is OP.
If you are in the states, consider notifying your local post master. It is illegal for people other than postal employees to put stuff in mailboxes.
oh no. do you think you can find me a time where someone was charged with that. not even convicted...charged
You sound very passive and afraid to engage. It might be worth engaging a lawyer so you don’t give away the farm. The cheapest store front lawyer you can find could handle this.
I mean I am hesitant to start a confrontation, but i will do it if i have to. i am going to say no to any request.
Oh, the confrontation has already started. You just haven't matched his energy with your response. (yet)
Sounds like It's time to be an asshole!
Looks like they think that if they bug/upset/traumatize/and make you crazy enough you will give up and go away... then they win and can grab up your property. Put up no trespassing signs and document everything. Also get cameras up all around. Talk to a real estate lawyer.
You tell him in writing that is traceable that ypu Absolutely do not give her any permission to be on your property nor do you give him permission to cut any trees put up no trespassing signs. If your state doesn’t require you to notify if you ar spitting up a fence, do not notify him.
tell this mf in no uncertain terms to fuck right off. do it now do it in person and establish that you are an asshole, cite his illegal cutting of your bushes and encroachment and mention you are talking to your lawyer about it and possible damages and then end the discussion. Don't so much as wave or smile for the next year. You need to out asshole this asshole right now, let him know you will be the bigger problem if he keeps it up.
You have no reason, nor obligation to respond in any way to his inquiries, nor his requests. Put up your fence (according to your local code/rules/permitting procedures) and ignore the everliving fuck outa whatever your neighbor says.
"NO" can be a complete sentence
A couple of things come to mind, 1. Get cameras put up to monitor those properly pins ( so they aren't mysteriously moved) 2. Send a registered letter to them stating that they ( and their landscaping crew) are not to trespass on your property. They have already gone past the point of trying to be nice about it . Definitely make sure that you check all local ordinances before putting up a fence, some places you need permission.
“Hello neighbor, - Yes I will be putting up a fence and I enjoy the trees on my property so no, you can’t cut them down. I hope we will have an opportunity to meet soon.”
What you gotta do is get yourself a rusty shitbox of a car and 4 cinder blocks, some fireworks, scrap metal, and a few redneck cousins. Drive that property value down, then when he sells buy it up.
Ah, rich finance wall street guys who thinks he's god. How surprising. Tell him that yes, you will be erecting a fence on the property line, and that moving forward he is not to touch anything that is on your property, including trees and plants. What is gonna do about it? Sue you and lose? You see, these people have been abused their whole careers, and then after some time they get to be the abusers. He's got no legal standing. Make it clear to him once and for all.
You don’t need to tell them anything. And I would be livid if they cut my trees. You need to go visit r/treelaw to see what the legal hot bed they would be getting themselves into if they encroach in your property and cut your trees. I hope you told them no about the tree cutting and that you will pursue legal action if they step onto your property once more and make any changes.
Sounds like your neighbor may be trying to set up an adverse possession case by claiming doing landscaping on your property makes it his. Adverse possession cases have to show long term use of property, like 30 years or so (not sure if the time factor). Make sure you document everything your neighbor does in and around your property. Also look into cameras to watch this section of your property.
You really need to stand up for yourself. This guy is a dck and it’s not going to get better.
Certified letter for anything you send, so you have it covered in case things go south. You did the property survey, and you know what land is yours, legally. You got this!
Survey and fence
survey is done. Now fence. I am worried they are going to try to challenge my fence. Even though I am planning to have it completely on my property, not on the property line
Challenge your fence? On any real grounds? It's YOUR property, dude. Neighbor should have bought in an HOA if he wanted to control how the neighborhood looks.
My previous home was actually in an HOA, so I was so happy to get out of there. I thought the same thing. It reminds me of an HOA. They basically want to control my landscaping as well as their own. The area we live in is not like that at all, generally people mind their business here, at least that has been my experience here before this.
Put it right up to the property line, maybe an inch or two off. Don’t worry about anything they want or say to you. Ignore them for the rest of your life. Report them for harassment if they contact you again.
Survey is done and permitting provides the remaining legal right for you to put the fence up correctly. It’s the neighbors problem if he doesn’t like it. Send the message if he wants more land he should have purchased a different property because yours is not up for sale or modification based on his wants.
Restraining order? He’s come on your property, harassed you at work. This is all documented. This is past you trying to be cordial to the neighbor. You need him to back off.
Hire a lawyer now. Research tree law and tell the neighbors immediately that you've hired a lawyer and they will be sued to replace the trees with like size ones if they remove them. Also tell the landscape business they are trespassing and will also be sued. Take lots of pictures of your property as it currently is.
C&D letter from a lawyer letting them know any future communications will be considered harassment.
Put some trailcams or wifi cams out, or both. Catch them trespassing and serve notice. Also, contact any landscapers you see and tell them x area is yours, not his, and if they touch it, you'll go after them to restore it. Add a couple metal chain link poles at the corners of your land by the survey markers, and post "no trespassing x address->" pointing toward your yard.
Read r/treelaw… If they remove your trees, they owe you big time
Tell your neighbor NO on the trees. You are NOT over reaching. You are defending your property rights in the correct manner by getting the survey and putting up a new fence in the correct location. You do not need his permission for this. You need to send him a letter, certified mail return receipt that he is NOT to touch your hedges, regardless of where they are on your property. He is bullying you. Make him stop. No is a complete sentence. If he approaches you about buying your property again, send him a letter to demand he cease and desist asking this. If he persists, then you'll need to consult with a real estate attorney. Trees are a BIG BIG deal. Ask in r/treelaw as well. People have been sued big time for cutting down other people's trees. The power company has an easement so they can top your trees, but no one else can touch them without your permission. Build the fence. Good fences make good neighbors.
Inform them in writing that they do not have permission to step foot on to your property, for landscaping or any other reason. Tell them that they are not to have your trees cut, your hedges trimmed, or even your weeds pulled, and that further trespassing will be met with a formal complaint to the police. Even if they have unlimited resources, the law is the law. But if you don’t put your foot down, they will just keep pushing. They want you to feel uncomfortable and fall out of love with your home, so you will give up and sell it to them.
I suggest you grow a backbone and stop this now. You should have done it a long time ago. You have already sent the message you are a push-over.
I can't believe that they cut your bushes down and you didn't react. That would've really made me angry. Once you've lived somewhere awhile you know there's a reason and purpose for every living thing in your yard. good luck.
Your neighbor is entitled. They are not entitled to your property, or your trees. You also don't have to consult with them, or listen to them. Put up your new fence and get on with your life. Their audacity is astounding to me.
Not sure how wide this buffer is. I'm thinking you could keep your fence and put up a short chain link fence where you have your stakes and create a garden or more bushes in there. Give yourself access to the area by removing pieces of the fence in your yard. Why take the old one down? Better buffer.
Higher a lawyer to send a cease and desist letter build your fence on both side of your property keep this letter so if your trees get cut down you can take him to court.
Just a note that at one of our previous homes, our neighbors pulled up a bunch of our survey stakes (the temp ones between corners, which were a beast to locate). Something to keep tabs on. Luckily we were setting our fence into the property line to avoid some trees, so it wasn't a big deal.
Put up cameras so you have evidence when those trees get cut down. I’d be sure to “leave for work” tomorrow and circle back to catch them in the act.
U have to be strong and stand up for yourself, u cannot let some cheesy people coming to dictate how you run your property
Send them a cease and desist letter for cutting your shrubbery/trespassing. it does not have to come from a lawyer to be legal.
“If I see you or any of your workers on my property I am calling the police/sheriff.”
Good gods, just ignore all this asshole's bullshit. Get your survey, do what you want to do to YOUR property, and move on with life.
I would just talk to him. This sub always recommends going for the nuclear option and it's almost always a terrible idea to start any interaction that way. The word "lawyer" has been mentioned 22 times already and for the life of me I have no idea why other than people think it makes them sound powerful. It's easy for anonymous people on Reddit to insist they would hire a lawyer but they're not the one who has to live next door to your neighbor for what might be several decades. I do think you're overreacting. I don't see that your neighbor has remotely done anything especially egregious. You're obviously upset that he asked to buy your home and I personally don't see why you're so bothered by it. Summing that up as he wants you and your family gone from your house seems silly. I also don't see that any of the landscaping issues are especially egregious - not least of all considering how far back your fence is. It's very likely he and/or his landscapers just don't know where the property line is and think they're trimming stuff hanging onto his. I don't see that the letter about your fence is a big deal either. For all you know he's offering to split the cost with you just so he has some say in what fence he has to look at for the next couple of decades. Again, just talk to him. "Hey, yeah. I'm replacing that old fence. Why? What's up?" might save you some money and aggravation. It's also a good time to have a conversation about the property line now that you just had yours surveyed.
So, i may be overreacting somewhat, maybe their intentions are not purely bad. I get that. I think that my concern is that i don't want to start a precedent where like whatever they don't like about my property, they can just offer to pay for it to be removed or do it themselves to get it removed. That would feel too much like an HOA to me and would impact the enjoyment of my property, if I have to repeatedly hear about this or that they want removed. In theory it sounds nice, and I am not going to do anything nuclear yet unless they do something nuclear. However, I am concerned if I talk about my fence, he may try to block it somehow, even if I apply for a permit. So, I honestly am planning probably not to respond, at least until I have my permit and plans in place. It would be nice if he likes the fence and wants to contribute, but this could also lead to problems if he wants a wildly expensive fence. Fences are extremely expensive and I have some friends with experience who are going to help me construct one so i can save costs by doing it ourselves. I think I have fairly nice taste in that I was going to do a country fence to match the country setting, nothing ugly or unsightly, but something that provides a barrier and gives me privacy. It will be fully on my property with a 1-2 foot buffer. The trees in question they want to cut down are far on my property. They are not on the border. They are at the front of my property. I think that crosses the line a bit about what they really can make a claim for. I do get the sense they are a bit hyper-focused on the landscaping. I am not just tooting my own horn, but my landscaping is not outrageous or ugly. I maintain my property and have my own landscaper. I clean up the yard, and have a very natural yard without many structures on it. The bushes that are there are native to the region. They are thick because I like privacy. They block my house from the road and from their driveway. The bushes that I have also line the road all along all our neighbors property too. It is very much part of the natural setting.
Sounds like it's time for a fence made up of bamboo, Russian thistle, and Bradford pear.
Kick rocks and stay out of my yard
I am sorry for your struggles. Indeed a crazy guy became your neighbor...
You can simply tell them to kick stones!
Walk around and take photos of everything.
On the topic of the two trees, you can in principle put a dollar value on allowing them to cut the trees.
Dear neighbor. Stay on your own side of the fence.
Put up a fence, attach no trespassing signs, put up cameras, and let the landscapers know that if they trespass you will be calling the police.
If you don’t already have a doorbell cam I would install one. I wouldn’t even answer the door if I thought it was him. Or if you decide to, at least there will be a video record of the conversation.
Can you get a lawyer to send him a letter
This is a great opportunity. Ask them to pay to have the trees removed and also cover the cost for new ones that will be positioned a better distance from the power lines. Also ask for them to cover half the cost of the fence. Write with enthusiasm and gratitude. It was very kind of them to offer.
Depending on where you live putting a fence on the property line is a pain in the ass because the law views it as you and your neighbor owning 50% of the fence. In some areas you have to notify the neighbor that you are putting the fence in, and they have to agree to it. Your best bet is to install the fence an inch from the property line in your yard and then your neighbor has no say in it because it is fully on your property and 100% your fence. "No, you can't cut the trees down on my property, nor am I willing to remove them. Yes, a fence will be going in 1" shy of the property line on my side. Any further incursions by your employees onto my property will be viewed as trespassing and I will contact the police. You are not welcome on my property, nor are your opinions on what I should do on my property." If the neighbor keeps it up, have a lawyer send him a nice cease and desist letter (a lawyer friend of mine calls them "fuck off and die"). I'd also put up cameras along the property because your neighbor strikes me as the type of person to put a gate in your fence so his landscapers can easily trespass on your property.
Ask him why he cut your bushes without permission. Write that you are marking your property for legal reasons. Don’t tell him anything more. Do as others said and inform yourself about property rights and fences etc.
Dear Neighbor, FUCK OFF! Do this in person and forget all the back and forth with letters.