"I purchased my second home that had its own balcony. When I visited in the summer, I was astounded to find that my neighbour had taken advantage of my absence to take over part of my balcony and had even installed a screen.

What could I do if he said the balcony belonged to him?

Thank goodness I had contracted Title Insurance with my purchase. I called their office and they dealt with everything.

I recovered what was legally mine and, more importantly, I didn't have to pay anything."

R. A. - Marbella (Málaga)

Spanish law states that where there are common areas shared by property owners, an official community must be formed with at least annual meetings held to apportion running costs and agree on maintenance schedules.

There are often debates and quarrels over which parts of a community are designated as private, public or common areas and in particular, rights of access or thoroughfare.

Usually these areas are strictly defined and very clear to all respective owners.

This case, however, is an example of a common problem where normally claimants require a gentle reminder as to the legal definitions that govern their property and communal areas. They rarely come to court but can be the cause of considerable stress and tension especially when those in dispute are living in such close quarters.

Having your communal property protected with a title insurance policy means that the legal facts can be very quickly established and presented to the interested parties. For those insured, this usually means no expensive, additional legal representation is required and fairly quick outcome to the case.