Select Page

Property Dispute Solicitors in Ireland

Our experienced property and litigation solicitors advise and represent clients across Ireland in resolving a broad range of land and property disagreements. We provide clear, pragmatic legal solutions tailored to your circumstances — with the goal of protecting your rights and resolving disputes as efficiently and amicably as possible.

 

Book an Appointment
Contact us
wo small wooden house models on grass connected by a red string—symbolizing property and boundary disputes between neighboring properties.

Expert Legal Advice for All Types of Property Disputes

Property disputes can arise in residential, rural, or commercial contexts. These disputes are often complicated by unclear documentation, verbal agreements, or historical use of land. We act for private individuals, families, developers, and landowners in relation to:

 

  • Boundary disputes (fence lines, hedgerows, walls, encroachments)
  • Title and ownership disputes (conflicting registration, inheritance, or joint ownership)
  • Adverse possession claims (also known as squatters’ rights)
  • Disputes regarding rights of way and easements
    Shared property and co-ownership disagreements
  • Obstructions or unauthorised use of land
  • Land registry rectification matters

Speak to our legal team now about your case. Call us
Freephone on:
+353 (0)1 264 5555

We understand that many property disputes are not just legal — they’re also personal. Especially when neighbours, relatives, or long-standing relationships are involved. Our team approaches each matter with discretion, professionalism, and a focus on reaching the most appropriate outcome for you.

Case Studies

Because your story matters-just like theirs ..

Very helpful and always on hand to help, from my first email I was very impressed with the level of service provided, Jessica and Sinead where always very helpful and kept me updated on progress, I would definitely have no hesitation in recommending Gibson & Associates to Family and Friends.
Anthony Kimmins

Highly recommend Gibson & Associates. Professional, helpful, friendly staff. Jessica is a pleasure to deal with. Thanks for everything.

Rachel Mulrooney

Recommendation for Gibson and Associates
The company was alway responsive throughout the process and clear with regard to the guidance they provided me. The staff was knowledgeable and courteous.
Kathleen Ohalloran

We used Gibson and Associates, which provided an excellent service. They were extremely professional and very personable, clearly explaining the process every step of the way. I would highly recommend this firm.
Michelle Sheehan

Disputes Regarding Rights of Way and Easements

Rights of way and easements grant one property owner the legal right to use part of another’s land for a specific purpose — such as access to a home, farmland, or utilities.

Disputes often occur when these rights are blocked, denied, or exceeded, particularly in rural or shared-access situations.

We provide clear advice on your entitlements under law, the documentation supporting those rights (or lack thereof), and how to assert or defend your position.

In many cases, we resolve such disputes through negotiation or formalising the access right, but we are prepared to pursue court action if necessary to protect your land use.

Land Registry Rectification Matters

Errors or omissions in the Land Registry can cause significant legal issues, especially when they affect the ownership or boundaries of your property.

In some cases, a title may be registered incorrectly, exclude important rights (such as easements), or include land that shouldn’t be there. These mistakes can prevent a sale, delay development, or open the door to disputes.

We assist clients in making rectification applications to the Land Registry, compiling the necessary evidence, and liaising with relevant parties — including the Property Registration Authority — to ensure your title is accurate and legally secure.

Title and Ownership Disputes

Ownership disputes can arise in several ways — including family transfers, inheritance, broken business partnerships, or situations where one person has contributed financially but is not named on the title.

Conflicting claims over property ownership can be highly complex and emotionally charged — especially when they arise out of inheritance issues, family agreements, or unclear legal documentation. These disputes can involve multiple parties, claims of beneficial ownership, or confusion over joint ownership arrangements.

We advise clients on their legal rights, investigate the full history of the property’s ownership, and act to resolve these matters through negotiation, rectification, or litigation when required. Our goal is to secure your rightful legal interest in the property while minimising stress and delay.

We advise on:
• Beneficial ownership claims where a person asserts an interest despite not being the legal owner
• Joint ownership breakdowns, including applications for sale or division of proceeds
• Undue influence, fraud, or misrepresentation in the transfer of property
• Disputes between cohabitants, family members, or former partners
• Claims of title rectification or Land Registry errors

Where appropriate, we will issue or defend legal proceedings to determine ownership rights and update the property register to reflect the legal position.

Adverse Possession Claims (Squatters’ Rights)

Adverse possession, sometimes referred to as “squatters’ rights,” allows a person to claim legal ownership of land they have occupied without the permission of the registered owner, provided certain legal conditions are met — usually after 12 years of continuous use.
These cases are highly fact-specific and can have serious consequences for property owners.

We act on behalf of both:

  • Claimants seeking to acquire legal title through long-term occupation
  • Landowners opposing such claims or seeking to recover possession

Whether you are making an adverse possession claim or seeking to challenge one, our team will guide you through the relevant legal test, prepare the necessary documentation, and represent you in proceedings before the Property Registration Authority or the courts.

Shared Property and Co-Ownership Disagreements

Owning property jointly — whether with a spouse, family member, or business partner — can lead to disputes when relationships break down or when parties no longer agree on how the property should be used, maintained, or disposed of.

These disputes often centre around financial contributions, future use of the property, or one party wanting to sell while the other does not. We help co-owners resolve conflicts through legal agreements, buyouts, or, where required, applications to the court for sale or division of the property. Our team ensures your financial and legal interests are fully protected throughout the process.

Obstructions or Unauthorised Use of Land

If someone is obstructing your access, building on your land, or using it without consent, you may have grounds to take legal action. Obstructions such as fences, buildings, or landscaping works can affect your ability to enjoy or develop your property and may diminish its value.

Similarly, if a neighbour or third party uses your land for storage, farming, or access without permission, you may need to take steps to prevent legal rights from being established.

Our solicitors can issue formal warnings, seek injunctions, and take swift legal action to stop unauthorised use and recover possession where necessary.

Disagreements over boundary lines are among the most common causes of property disputes in Ireland. These disputes often arise when a fence, wall, hedgerow, or extension appears to encroach onto neighbouring land — either due to historical mapping errors or differing interpretations of title documents. 

Boundary Disputes in Ireland

Boundary disputes often arise when the physical features of a property do not align with the boundaries shown on title maps or Land Registry records. These situations may involve:

  • A newly erected fence, wall, or extension crossing into your land
  • Encroachment onto your property, whether intentional or accidental
  • Disagreements about where your legal title begins or ends
  • A need to clarify, relocate, or formalise a boundary line

We will:

  • Review your title deeds, Land Registry maps, and any relevant historic documentation
  • Instruct a qualified land surveyor, if needed, to establish accurate boundary lines
  • Explore alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including negotiation or mediation
  • Represent you in litigation, where necessary, to protect or enforce your property rights

Whether you’re disputing a neighbour’s encroachment or defending a claim against you, we’ll work to resolve the matter fairly, protect your property rights, and avoid unnecessary conflict wherever possible. Timely legal advice is critical. Left unresolved, boundary issues can affect your ability to sell, develop, or insure your property.

Why you can trust Gibson & Associates LLP

Client-Focused Results

If your case qualifies, we’ll pursue it with determination and diligence to get the best possible result for you

Clear & Honest Guidance
We offer transparent, straightforward advice on the strength of your case and the likely outcomes—no legal jargon.
Accredited & Trusted
We are proud members of the Law Society of
Ireland, delivering expert legal services with
integrity and care.
Client-Focused Results

If your case qualifies, we’ll pursue it with determination and diligence to get the best possible result for you

How We Support You Through Your Query

At Gibson & Associates LLP, our Boundary Disputes team handles all the practical steps.

Our team handles all the aspects of the process for you. This means you don’t have to worry about dealing with paperwork, calls, or attending hearings alone – we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Book a FREE discovery call
Medical Assessment
Arranging medical assessment to identify your needs.
Handling Communications
Handling all communication throughout the process
Exploring Legal Options

Exploring options to help you decide what is best for you

Court Representation

Representing you in court if this is needed

Our Dedicated Property Team

Daireann Gibson
Managing Partner

Amanda Walsh
Partner

Roisin McCluskey
Senior Solicitor

Celine Clarkin
Solicitor

Warren Sexton
Solicitor

Natasha Rodgers
Senior Business Operations Manager

Sarah Davis
Senior Legal Executive

Ruta Janulaitylte
Legal Executive

Michelle McKeon
Legal Support 

Property and Boundary Disputes FAQ's

1. What should I do if I believe my neighbour is encroaching on my land?

You should seek legal advice immediately. Encroachment can lead to permanent boundary changes if not addressed promptly. We will assess your title and advise on your options.

2. Can property disputes be resolved without going to court?

Yes. In many cases, disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or through mutual agreement formalised in writing. Litigation is a last resort but may be necessary in some situations.

3. What is the process for claiming adverse possession in Ireland?

You must prove factual possession for a continuous period (typically 12 years or more), without the permission of the legal owner. We can assist with assembling the necessary documentation and submitting your application to the Land Registry.

4. What happens if I jointly own a property and we can’t agree on what to do with it?

You may apply to the court for an order to sell the property or divide the proceeds. These cases are complex, particularly where informal financial contributions were made. We can guide you through the legal remedies available.

5. How long does it take to resolve a property dispute?

It depends on the complexity of the matter and whether the dispute can be resolved amicably or requires litigation. We will always aim for the most time- and cost-efficient resolution possible.