What defines an encroachment in real estate?

An encroachment in real estate is defined as an unauthorized intrusion onto another's property. This occurs when a structure or object, such as a fence, building, or landscaping, extends beyond the property boundary line into a neighbor's land without their consent. Encroachments can lead to disputes between property owners regarding property rights and boundaries. Such intrusions are significant because they can affect property values and may require legal action to resolve if the affected party seeks to enforce their property rights.

In contrast, the other choices highlight different real estate concepts. For example, authorized alterations of property lines pertain to legal agreements or surveys between property owners, which do not represent an encroachment. Temporary lease violations relate to rental agreements rather than permanent property boundaries. A property boundary survey is a process used to determine exact property lines and does not imply any unauthorized intrusion but rather clarifies the legal boundaries of properties. Understanding these distinctions is key when analyzing property rights and potential legal issues in real estate.