10 practical tips for landowners: how to avoid boundary disputes?

Being the owner of your own land also means responsibility. Every day, the Land and Spatial Development Board deals with issues where the boundaries are unclear to the landowner, the boundary markers have disappeared, or there is a disagreement with a neighbor. The good news is that there is a lot you can do yourself – by acting at the right time, you can avoid a tedious and costly border dispute. We have compiled 10 important tips on how to keep your land boundaries in order.

1. Know your boundaries

Do you know exactly where the boundaries of your land are? Are there boundary markers in every corner, and are they visible? If the answer is "no," it is worth reviewing the boundaries in nature.

2. Trust facts, not rumors

If your knowledge of the boundaries of your land comes from the previous owner, it may be inaccurate. Check the official boundary protocol and its diagram/cadastral unit plan, not just old maps or verbal descriptions.

3. Use digital tools – go to minu.kataster.ee

Enter the address or cadastral code of your land parcel at minu.kataster.ee and check the locations of the boundary markers on the map. In the information window and under archive materials, you will also find a description of the boundaries, the value of the land, restrictions, etc. If you find any discrepancies, feel free to notify the Land and Spatial Development Board, or MaRule.

4. Check the boundary markers in nature

Once a year, take a walk along the boundary of your land parcel – are the boundary markers still there and visible? Clean the old boundary stones of moss and cut down any brush.

5. Do not carry out "independent land surveying"

If a boundary marker has been lost or damaged, do not replace it yourself! A new boundary marker can only be installed by a licensed land surveyor, who will also provide a warranty for the work and forward the data to the cadastral registrar.

6. Be available and cooperative

If your neighbor wants to change the boundary of their land, you, as their neighbor, must be involved. To do this, make sure that your contact details are up to date in the population register.

7. If you are invited to the site, go there

If you receive an invitation to view the boundaries, be sure to go! If you cannot, let them know and find a new time with the land surveyor. If necessary, send your representative. It is in your best interest.

8. If in doubt, ask a specialist for advice

If something seems wrong or unclear about the boundaries, feel free to contact the Land and Spatial Development Board or a land surveyor. They will help clarify the situation and provide a reliable assessment.

9. Check whether your land parcel has a note saying "Area is inaccurate"

This means that some boundary points have not been measured with precision instruments. The boundary markers may be in place in nature, but their location on the map may be slightly off. If necessary, order a new survey.

10. Avoid future expenses

Any missing or unclear boundary markers can lead to costly disputes. By keeping your boundaries in order and maintaining friendly relations with your neighbors, you will save time, nerves, and money.

Useful links:

Author: Tõnu Kägo, Head of the Cadastral Quality Department at the Land and Spatial Development Board

Loomise kuupäev: 14.11.2025

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