Spot the Encroachment - Parallel Fences If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a picture of parallel fences must be worth more. Clearly, there are at least two stories behind this set of fences between neighbours. Surveyors will always pay attention to these situations as there is likely a pre-existing dispute about the location of the property line. [...]
How to Spot an Encroachment - Quickly Most realtors will purchase the certificate of title and email us a copy when ordering a Real Property Report to prevent errors. We knew within minutes of this Real Property Report being ordered that we would find an encroachment. How did we know? There is a caveat listed on this title that is described as an Encroachment Agreement. This agreement can also be purchased from the Land Titles office. [...]
How long will it take to get a Real Property Report? One of the first questions a new client will ask is, “How long will it take to get a Real Property Report?” The short answer is Third Rock delivers in approximately 3 to 5 business days. A common follow-up question is, “Okay, but what time will you be at my house?” That answer is a little more difficult, and here is why. [...]
Additions and Side Yards Walking past this enclosed deck that looks more like an addition than a deck with windows and doors, a person might wonder how close to the side property line they are allowed to build. Once we completed this report and provided distances from the property line to the foundation corner and the addition's corner, the city provided an answer. The bylaw for this parcel states the setback from the side property line is 1.2m (about 4 feet). The addition is only 0.86m away and does not comply with the bylaw. [...]
3 Reasons why your old RPR is not acceptable Real Property Reports have changed over time. Many decades ago, survey certificates only showed the foundation of the dwelling and the compliance certificates were subject to older bylaws. Modern Real Property Report show all permanent improvements and are likewise subject to modern bylaws. [...]
AC Units and Zero Lot Lines The spaces between houses in zero-lot-line neighbourhoods are typically reserved for maintenance. What happens when someone builds within this space? [...]
Spot the Bylaw Infraction! Challenge Edition The attached photos feature a bylaw infraction, but it is most likely not what you think. The side yards on this pie-shaped lot are generous and the house is properly placed within the building envelope. The homeowner has added a pergola (2.62x4.09m) on the deck which is not attached to the house. The lattice adds some privacy screening and poses no problem. Thoughts? [...]
Spot the Encroachment: New Driveway Before you scroll down, take a close look at the photo and guess where the property line is relative to the brand-new asphalt driveway. [...]
When Sunrooms are Attached to Houses Many people are surprised when they learn their sunroom is considered an addition to their house. It is a common homeowner's story: They sit on their deck and think, I should add a roof to my deck. Then they sit under their roof and think, I should add a few walls. Over the course of time, they build an attached sunroom that is subject to the same building envelope regulations as their house. [...]