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You can choose your friends but you can’t choose the people you live next to. You might not naturally get along with your neighbours, but if you can be thoughtful and considerate you will likely be able to avoid most major conflicts. This is very important if you plan to build a fence. So what should you keep in mind when it comes to fence etiquette between neighbors? Here are some helpful tips:

Make Sure You Know Your Property Boundaries

It is important to know before you start building a fence. This will help you to avoid problems with the neighbours later on. It is recommended to build the fence one foot within the property line so that you can stay on the safe side and avoid any disputes.

If you are unsure of where your property line is located, then you might want to have your property officially surveyed so that you can find out. You can have a map created of the property to see where the line is drawn, so if there are any disputes in the future they can be worked out.

Respect Fencing Limits

There are local zoning regulations that will determine what kind of fence you can buy and how high it can be. Make sure that you are aware of these, especially as to how they will apply to your property. For example, there might be a difference for corner lots especially where blind curves might limit the visibility. The fencing company is not responsible for knowing your home owners association dos and don’ts – that is up to you. If you build a fence that doesn’t fit in with the requirements, you might find yourself getting in trouble.

Share Your Plans

Don’t surprise your neighbours by starting to build a fence without contacting them. Before you start the installation, have a conversation and let them know what you plan to do. If there are any issues with the property line, they can be resolved before the installation begins.

Of course, you don’t have to show them the design of the fence as long as it fits the guidelines. Unless it lowers the property value or is dangerous, they have to live with the fence and they don’t have a say in the design. Of course, try to make sure that the fence is attractive and pleasing to the eye so that it will not bring down the appearance of the neighbourhood – as it is a very visual aspect of your home.

Put The Best Face Forward

It is the generally accepted practice to put the more finished side of your fence towards the street and the neighbours yard. That way they will have the best side of the fence to look at. You might even want to choose something along the lines of a cedar fence, which looks the same on both sides.

It is also your responsibility to clean and maintain both sides of the fence. If any of the sections start to age or lean, you should replace it. Visit your store for everything you need to maintain your fence. Richard Williams is a great example and they are also a .

Keeping your fence attractive and maintained is good etiquette, because it will affect the value of all other homes in the neighborhood. Make sure that the design of the fence isn’t too outrageous – a bright neon green fence will probably not go over very well with your neighbours.

Who Pays for the Fence?

The question of paying for the fence depends on an agreement between you and your neighbor, but if building it is your idea then you should be footing the bill. However, the neighbor might offer to chip in for the costs if they are able to have some say in the design of the fence. If both agree to this, it can be a great compromise for both.

These are just a few of the important tips that you should keep in mind when it comes to building fences and getting along with your neighbor. Building a fence doesn’t have to be a source of conflict, it can be a positive thing that you both agree on.