Definition of "Adjacent property"

Dan Stutzman real estate agent

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K Company Realty

The term adjacent property, naturally, refers to a property’s position regarding other properties close to it. The adjacent property meaning is different from the term adjoining property. While adjoining is used to describe objects or properties joined in one form or another, adjacent properties are those properties that are close by but don’t touch. 

What is Meant by an Adjacent Property?

When we look at a street with several houses built on both sides, we can say that the properties that face each other across the street are adjacent properties. The term implies that while the properties are near to each other, they have a barrier between them. This barrier can be a street, a line of trees, a river but not another property.

Adjacent properties are often confused with abutting or adjoining properties. They shouldn’t be because adjacent properties do not share common borders, walls, or other structures with other properties, nor do they help support other structures. 

When are Adjacent Properties Important?

Developers are aware that any change in a residential area can have an impact on the neighborhood. The first thing they consider is the zoning ordinances in that particular area to see if the new development, especially if it isn’t a residential building, can be built there. Some ordinances strictly forbid commercial real estate while others allow it. Planning is needed for this and maybe even discussions with the HOA as, in some cases, when commercial properties are built, they can affect the value of the adjacent properties near it.

Another reason why it’s important to be careful around adjacent properties when constructions take place is not to disturb the neighbors. Usually, construction companies require insurance to protect the neighboring adjacent properties as well as the adjoining properties. Once covered by insurance, if some damage happens to those properties, the construction company will not have to empty their pockets to pay for the repairs.

Comments for Adjacent Property

David Brewster David Brewster said:

Snow removal ordinance. Our county has a snow removal ordinance that says 'adjacent property owners to public sidewalks, are responsible for clearing snow and ice. Our HOA adopted this into our by-laws. Our property is adjacent to the sidewalk, separated by a strip of 'common property'. The properties that are on the other side of the public street that runs through our HOA neighborhood. Should those properties that are on the other side of the street also be considered as adjacent to the sidewalks, since they are separated by the street? Can we be legally bound by the ordinance since our lot property and sidewalk are divided by the HOA common property?

Dec 17, 2022  12:59:36

 
Real Estate Agent

Hello David, 

Every Homeowners Association has adopted its own set of rules and regulations. For this reason, each HOA community provides residents with a manual or paperwork regarding the fundamental HOA principles. In the documentation, they include everything the HOA covers. Also, you’ll find the list of the residents’ obligations or duties.

We recommend you review your own HOA documentation. If you don’t have it, you can request a copy from the HOA headquarters.

Dec 23, 2022  04:09:26
 
Dale Van Tassel Dale Van Tassel said:

I like to ask if a property is broken up in to 4 parcels the 1st 2.7 acre 2nd 97 acre 3nd 39 acre and a 5 acre parcel the 2nd parcel 97 acre is between the 1st and 3nd parcels is the 1st and 3rd considered adjectsent?

Oct 24, 2022  14:26:17

 
Real Estate Agent

Hello Dale, to be sure, we recommend you consult a specialist in the domain, i.e., a land surveyor, to have your estate properly surveyed! Note that we call adjacent parcels such parcels that share at least one common boundary. Parcels separated by a public or private road or right-of-way are considered adjacent. Parcels that share only one joint property corner are not considered adjacent.
From what you disclosed, parcel nr. 1 and parcel nr. 3 may not be adjacent since parcel nr. 2 is way too extensive. Then again, please consider that we don't have the necessary information to decide.

Nov 02, 2022  05:20:23
 
 
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