Myrtle Beach & Horry County
Real Property Disputes
Property disputes have a way of escalating quickly.
A disagreement that begins with a boundary line, an easement, or a closing document can quickly put significant investments, relationships, and future plans at risk.
For property owners, developers, landlords, and businesses along the Grand Strand, these matters are rarely just technical — they are financial and often personal.
Harrison Pillinger represents clients across Myrtle Beach and Horry County in real property disputes involving ownership rights, contracts, access issues, and development conflicts.
Our approach is measured and practical. We take the time to understand the situation, explain the legal landscape in plain terms, and guide clients toward the most effective resolution.
And when a dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation, we are fully prepared to pursue the matter in court.
When Property Issues Arise
Real property conflicts take many forms, but most begin with a moment where something no longer makes sense or no longer feels fair.
You may be facing:
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a boundary or survey dispute with a neighboring property owner
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an easement or right-of-way disagreement affecting access or development
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an unexpected title issue discovered during a purchase or refinance
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an HOA or condominium enforcement conflict
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a construction defect or property damage issue affecting an investment property
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a disagreement between co-owners over how property should be used or sold
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a landlord-tenant dispute that has escalated beyond resolution
These situations often carry both legal and practical consequences. Property values, business plans, and long-standing relationships can all be affected.
Our role is to bring clarity to the situation and help clients move forward with confidence
How Harrison Pillinger Approaches Property Disputes
Every property dispute is different, but our process is consistent.
Understanding the Situation
We begin by reviewing the documents and facts that define the property relationship — deeds, surveys, closing records, contracts, HOA documents, correspondence, and other relevant materials. This initial step often reveals issues that may not be obvious at first glance.
Mapping the Options
Once we understand the legal landscape, we explain the available options in clear terms. Clients receive straightforward guidance about potential outcomes, risks, and practical considerations.
Strategic Resolution
Many property disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or targeted legal action. When possible, we pursue solutions that protect our client’s interests while minimizing unnecessary conflict.
Litigation When Necessary
When a dispute requires court intervention, we approach the case with thorough preparation and trial-ready advocacy. Our goal is always to protect our client’s rights and position them for the best possible outcome.
Real Property Matters
We Handle
Property law encompasses a wide range of disputes. Our firm regularly represents clients in matters including:
Boundary and Survey Disputes
Disagreements over property lines, fences, encroachments, or conflicting survey results can quickly escalate between neighboring property owners. These matters often require careful analysis of surveys, historical records, and property deeds.
Easements and Access Issues
Shared driveways, access roads, and right-of-way easements are common sources of conflict. When property access is restricted or contested, legal guidance may be necessary to protect established rights.
Quiet Title and Title Defects
A “cloud” on title, such as an unresolved claim, incorrect deed, or historical ownership issue, can prevent property from being sold or refinanced. Quiet title actions help resolve these issues and establish clear ownership.
Partition Actions
When co-owners of property disagree about how the property should be used, maintained, or sold, a partition action may be necessary to resolve the dispute and move forward.
Landlord–Tenant Disputes
Landlords and property investors may encounter situations involving non-payment, property damage, lease violations, or eviction proceedings. We assist clients in navigating these matters while protecting their legal rights.
HOA and Condominium Disputes
Homeowners associations and condominium boards play an important role in many Grand Strand communities. Conflicts can arise over rule enforcement, assessments, rental restrictions, or governance issues.
Construction Defects and Property Damage
Disputes involving construction defects, contractor performance, or property damage can have significant financial implications. These matters often require coordination with experts and detailed contract analysis.
Real Estate Contract Disputes
Purchase agreements, development contracts, and commercial property transactions occasionally break down. When contractual obligations are contested, legal representation may be necessary to protect the underlying investment.
Meet Your Attorneys
Michael Harrison
Founding Partner | Trial Lawyer
Michael Harrison is a seasoned South Carolina trial lawyer who represents clients in complex property and business disputes across the state. Known for candid counsel and courtroom confidence, Michael approaches each matter with careful preparation and a focus on achieving practical results.
Robert Pillinger
Founding Partner | Trial Lawyer
Robert Pillinger works closely with property owners, businesses, and investors facing high-stakes legal disputes. His approach combines careful legal analysis with strategic problem-solving, helping clients navigate complex matters with clarity and direction.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
What should I bring to a consultation about a property dispute?
Helpful documents may include deeds, surveys, purchase agreements, HOA documents, correspondence related to the dispute, photographs, and any notices or legal documents you have received. These materials often provide important context for understanding the issue.
Can property disputes affect the value or sale of property?
Yes. Unresolved disputes involving ownership, access rights, or title defects can make it difficult to sell or refinance property. Addressing these issues early often protects both the property’s value and the owner’s ability to move forward with future plans.
How long do property disputes usually take to resolve?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the dispute and whether the matter can be resolved through negotiation or requires litigation. Some disputes resolve within months, while others may take longer if court proceedings are necessary.
What happens if multiple family members inherit property and disagree about selling it?
When property is jointly owned by multiple individuals, disagreements can arise about how the property should be used, maintained, or sold. In these situations, a legal process known as a partition action may allow a court to determine how the property should be divided or whether it should be sold.
Can an HOA prevent short-term rentals of my property?
The answer depends on the association’s governing documents and any amendments adopted over time. In coastal communities such as Myrtle Beach, short-term rental restrictions have become a frequent source of conflict between property owners and associations.
What is a quiet title action?
A quiet title action is a legal process used to resolve disputes or uncertainties surrounding property ownership. The goal is to establish clear and undisputed title so the property can be sold, refinanced, or developed without future complications.
Can a neighbor block an easement or shared driveway?
In many cases, an easement grants a legal right to use a portion of another property for a specific purpose, such as access or utilities. If that right is being obstructed, legal remedies may be available depending on the language of the easement and surrounding property records.
What should I do if a neighbor disputes my property line?
Boundary disputes are often triggered by conflicting surveys, fencing, or construction near a property line. The first step is usually reviewing the deed, survey records, and historical property documentation. In some situations the issue can be resolved through clarification of the existing survey, while others may require legal action to establish the correct boundary.
Do I need a lawyer for a property dispute in Myrtle Beach or Horry County?
Many property disagreements begin with informal conversations between neighbors, co-owners, or business partners. When those conversations stop moving forward — or when property rights, access, or ownership become unclear — legal guidance can help clarify the situation and prevent further escalation.
Serving Myrtle Beach and
the Grand Strand
GET IN TOUCH
Harrison Pillinger represents clients throughout Myrtle Beach and Horry County, including North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Conway, and Little River.
Our firm understands the unique legal landscape of coastal property ownership — from condominium developments and rental properties to investment and commercial real estate.
We are committed to providing steady counsel and experienced advocacy to property owners and businesses throughout the region.
If you are facing a property dispute in Myrtle Beach or Horry County, we invite you to reach out. Our team will review the situation, answer your questions, and help you understand the available paths forward.