What does the right of lateral support protect?

The right of lateral support is a legal concept that ensures the natural integrity of a landowner's property, specifically protecting the land from being damaged when adjacent properties undergo excavation or other alterations. This right allows property owners to maintain the natural contour of their land, thereby minimizing the risk of erosion, instability, or subsidence that could occur if neighboring land is disturbed.

In this context, lateral support is crucial because it preserves the stability of soil and rock formations, ensuring that one property does not negatively impact the structural integrity of another due to excavation activities. This legal protection emphasizes the importance of respecting the natural landscape and the interconnectedness of properties, ultimately fostering responsible land use and development practices.