It’s Halloween and a Perfect Time to Talk Survey Nightmares: What Is A Common Ground Myth?

The words “common ground” always throws up a red flag to me. While common ground provides more “space” between you and your neighbors, it doesn’t mean that the land is for your private use and benefit. Common ground is typically deeded to subdivision associations and their trustees. It is land that is intended to be used, accessed and enjoyed by all individuals within that subdivision. Here are some examples where that enjoyment went a bit beyond what was legally owned by the homeowner:

• 475 Rockwood Court –There are several permanent structures that this homeowner has built into the common ground, including a shed, playset, gazebo and retaining wall. In addition, they have also put in an additional driveway that extends to Redwood Drive. That driveway also extends onto and past a 10 foot strip of common ground for access.
• 3260 Pelican Way –This homeowner has restricted access of the common ground by installing a fence into the common ground area. They also have landscaping that is located into the common ground area as well.
• 12 Northwood Street –This homeowner has landscaped into the common ground area and is also maintaining several trees located into the common ground.

The initial thought is that no one is going to care that you are using or are in the common ground area. But, it only takes one trustee or neighbor to make the “no one is going to care” into a public “everyone should care”. Be aware of what you do and don’t own, especially when purchasing a property that backs to common ground. Have a boundary survey performed to make it know what you own.

Cardinal Surveying would like the opportunity to earn your business.  They service the greater St Louis Metro area, have been rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau since 2003, have surveyed over 27,000 properties and are a family owned company who prides themselves on producing accurate results with exceptional customer service. They can be contacted via email at [email protected] or phone at 636.922.1001. They look forward to working with you for all your land surveying needs.