It is important to consider more than just your own needs when buying a new fence. Your neighbors on each side and any HOA rules applicable to your neighborhood need to be taken into consideration. To avoid problems down the road, it is a good idea to read up on fence etiquette in addition to following local zoning regulations. Your neighbors will have to see the fence every day from their windows or driveways, so keep that in mind when you’re building a fence for your pets or wildlife. Our fence installation etiquette guide contains a few points you should consider.
Fence Location: How To Decide Where To Build It
Understanding the boundaries of your property is essential. In the absence of a fence, it is easy for you to make assumptions about the boundary of your property, but if you plan to build a structure, it is important to be precise. Prior to installing the fence, ask your fencing company to verify the house’s plat to avoid arguments and property encroachment. City or county records offices usually have copies of your plat, which shows the location of your land. It is possible to hire a surveyor before building the fence if you are still uncertain about the boundary lines.
Is it necessary to inform neighbors before building a fence?
The law does not require you to notify your neighbors before you build a fence. The design of your project must be in compliance with neighborhood rules and located firmly within your property lines. However, it is a courtesy to inform your neighbors of your plans in case they have concerns or want to prevent the fence from being erected. A best-case scenario would be if your neighbor agreed to work with you on the fence that lines your properties, allowing you to split the cost. In order to avoid hurt feelings and even potential legal problems, it is always advisable to be upfront. No matter how bad your relationship is with your neighbor, a conversation is never a bad idea.
Can You Split The Cost Of Building A Fence With Your Neighbor?
In terms of fence etiquette, it is also important to take into account who is responsible for its cost. The homeowner who wants the fence and whose property it will occupy will usually have to pay for it. In addition to the cost of building the fence, you will also have to maintain it over time. It is a good idea to talk to your neighbor before you construct a fence in order to get their feedback. You may even be able to reach an agreement.
A boundary fence becomes mutually beneficial if both parties agree to build it. A fence of this type will be erected exactly along the property line and will be shared by both property owners. Local laws as well as proper fence etiquette dictate that boundary fence maintenance should be divided between the two property owners unless an agreement states otherwise. When you share the cost of a fence, following fence etiquette can make things go more smoothly and ultimately less expensive for both of you.
Regulations on fence heights and placements on property lines
Fences are usually required to be placed at least six inches from your property line in most localities. Checking regulations prior to installation is crucial for your fencing company. There will be rules and regulations specific to each jurisdiction. Generally, the maximum height of a fence is 6 feet. When building a fence in the front yard, within 15 feet of the curb, at the street line, or where a high fence will prevent traffic from seeing one another, the height limits are lower.
Does my neighbor have the right to tear down my fence?
In legal terms, a neighbor cannot remove a fence without a court order. Professionally installed fences conform to city regulations and are within your property lines. Fences on your property can be repaired or replaced by taking your neighbor to court if they tear them down illegally. If you follow proper fence etiquette, you’ll be able to prevent most situations that might cause a neighbor to act recklessly, but there are always exceptions.
The property owner has the right to remove a fence that you built if it was built on their property. A professional fence builder, a survey to determine boundary lines, and a legal permit are all important factors to consider when erecting a fence. You can avoid a lot of problems simply by following the proper etiquette regarding property fences.
What are the rules for building a fence next to my neighbor’s fence?
Fences that do not constitute boundaries must be built at least two feet inside from your own property line. There is a good chance your neighbor’s fence is two feet within their property line if they already have a fence up. The fence must be within two feet of your property line in order to be permitted on your own property. In the absence of sufficient space, you may be forced to fight over easement rights between the yards. Be sure to ask your fencing company about easement rights for your city before starting work.
How Does A Neighbor-Friendly Fence Work?
There may be a better side to the fence depending on the type of fencing that you plan to install. Make sure your neighbor’s property is facing the more attractive side. Building a neighbor-friendly fence can be done either with an identical look on both sides or with a plain finished design that won’t affect your neighbor’s home’s aesthetics.
A privacy fence usually has slats on one side and solid panels on the other. It is polite to point the solid side outward, and it makes your property look more attractive. Since this is also standard practice, most people will assume your fence was installed improperly if you install it with the smoother side facing in.
In order to have a uniform look on both sides, good neighbor fences are a better choice. The sandwich-style construction of these double-sided fences makes them thicker and more durable. The connection slats will be sandwiched between two outside panels, instead of being visible to you or your neighbor.
Do Fence Etiquette Guidelines Cover Maintenance?
Keeping your neighbors on good terms depends on proper fence etiquette, but it doesn’t end when the project is completed. It is important to maintain your fence on a regular basis. A properly maintained fence will look and perform well for many years to come. Taking care of your fence means painting, repairing, treating, and staining it as it ages. You might need to repair fence sections that have been damaged by pets. In addition to being beneficial to you, this is also beneficial to your neighbors.
Building your fence out of low-maintenance materials is a good idea if long-term maintenance isn’t your forte. Although wooden fences are highly attractive, they are also more demanding in terms of maintenance. Choosing a fence made of aluminum or vinyl allows you to clean the fence more easily, make fewer repairs, and maintain the appearance of the fence for a longer period of time.
When the time comes to build your fence, follow our easy-to-follow guidelines for proper fence etiquette and you’ll have an easier time with your neighbors. Make sure you communicate with your neighbors to get their feedback instead of making your fence a jarring surprise. There is always a possibility that they may have some design suggestions or decide to collaborate with you on the project.
Materials used in fencing
You need to choose the right materials for your fence after you get your neighbors’ blessing. Choosing solid wood or vinyl panels will give you the privacy you want. In terms of security, a chain link might be a better choice.
The Neighborly Fence Etiquette Takeaway
Our simple guidelines for proper fence etiquette will make building a fence easier with your neighbors. Get your neighbors’ input before your fence becomes a jarring surprise that makes you appear unfriendly. There is no telling what they will suggest or whether they will decide to collaborate with you on the project.
Are you ready to begin your fence project?
You might be eager about adding a fence to your property if you’re like most homeowners. Your home’s fence can provide privacy and security, as well as increase its value.
Let’s get started! We at Buckhead Fence Company are here to help. Get in touch with us today!