The physical extent of property ownership and rights of use are basic attributes of land and buildings and are capable of being evaluated by property professionals. Uncertainty of the extent of ownership and its associated rights affects the physical use and rights to repair, maintain, gain access to and obtain value of the land.

The purpose of this guidance note is to:

• provide RICS members with an understanding of the value and role that clearly identifiable boundaries provide
• enable, wherever possible, accurate and comprehensible information to be provided by professionals, with as little scope for misunderstanding as practicable
• help in the event of a dispute over boundaries, to set out the facts in a manner that assists the parties, their legal advisers and the courts, and
• safeguard the interest of clients and to promote the public interest.