Can my neighbor build right up to the property line?

What the Law Says

German law permits limited encroachment onto a neighbor’s land under strict conditions — but it does not give your neighbor a general right to build *up to* (let alone over) the property line without consequences.

Under BGB § 912, if a neighbor builds a structure that unintentionally crosses the boundary — and they acted without intent or gross negligence — you may be legally required to tolerate the encroachment (called Überbau). However, this tolerance is conditional: you must have failed to object *before* or *immediately after* the encroachment occurred.

Even if you’re required to tolerate the encroachment, you’re entitled to fair compensation in the form of an annual ground rent (Überbaurente). The amount depends on how long the encroachment has existed — not the value of the land or building.

Importantly, this rule applies only to *unintentional* boundary violations. If your neighbor knowingly builds over the line or acts with gross negligence, you can demand full removal — no rent, no tolerance.

Statutory Text

Hat der Eigentümer eines Grundstücks bei der Errichtung eines Gebäudes über die Grenze gebaut, ohne dass ihm Vorsatz oder grobe Fahrlässigkeit zur Last fällt, so hat der Nachbar den Überbau zu dulden, es sei denn, dass er vor oder sofort nach der Grenzüberschreitung Widerspruch erhoben hat.

— BGB § 912 (1) — German Civil Code

Statutory Text

Der Nachbar ist durch eine Geldrente zu entschädigen. Für die Höhe der Rente ist die Zeit der Grenzüberschreitung maßgebend.

— BGB § 912 (2) — German Civil Code

What Courts Have Said

German courts confirm that tolerance of encroachment is exceptional — not automatic — and hinges on timely objection and absence of fault.

What to Do

Sources

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