Boundary line disputes represent a highly common real property conflict in Washington. These disputes typically arise when the physical boundary line between adjoining parcels of land is uncertain, disputed, or inconsistent with public records, monuments, or landmarks. Washington law provides many statutory and common law frameworks for resolving these boundary disputes.
Statutory Boundary Resolution Framework.
Under Washington statutory law, when a boundary line or point cannot be identified from existing public records, landmarks, or monuments, or is actively in dispute, affected landowners may resolve the issue through one of two primary statutory pathways:
Written Agreement: If all affected landowners agree to a boundary line, they may document the agreement in a written instrument. RCW 58.04.007. This instrument must use appropriate legal descriptions, include a survey map, and be signed and acknowledged by each party in the same manner required for a conveyance of real
