Michigan Adverse Possession Law

[Zeeland300M]

We purchased a property in Michigan almost three years ago. The survey shows that one corner of our shed intrudes six inches across the rear property line into a neighbor's lot. There are no fences.

We have no idea how long it has been this way or whether the neighbor knows about the encroachment: he may not know precisely where his property line is any more than we know precisely where our side property lines are (I am sure that on occasion we are all mowing portions of each other's lawns). If he suddenly discovers the situation and demands the removal of the shed *and* if it turns out that the encroachment has lasted for more than 15 years, would we be entitled to resist his demand?

We don't particularly care about claiming title to those few square inches, but it would make life easier if we didn't have to move the shed at a moment's notice.

[Mr. Knowitall]

I doubt that you could claim adverse possession, as you make no "claim of right" - you admit that the six inches of land belongs to your neighbor. If this is a small shed that is easily moved, the remedy would most likely be to move it six inches onto your own land. If it's a larger structure, you may be able to claim that moving it would cause "waste", or to claim easement rights to keep it in its current location.