Which Fence is Mine? A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with fence issues can be a source of confusion and conflict between neighbours. Whether your fence has been damaged, you're unsure about property boundaries, or you need to determine who is responsible for fence maintenance, understanding the basics is crucial. This guide will help clarify ownership and responsibilities regarding fences, hedges, and walls.

For personalised advice on Stevenage fencing, we can help you with a range of fence panels, posts, and fence repair materials, available for collection or home delivery in and around Stevenage.

Which Fence Is Mine Left Or Right?

Determining Responsibility

When it comes to figuring out who is responsible for a fence, wall, or hedge between properties, communication is key. Discuss any issues calmly with your neighbour to reach a mutual agreement. However, it helps to know the ownership details beforehand.

Visual Clues

Forget the "left-hand" or "right-hand" rules you've heard about – they don't exist. Instead, observe the structure:

• Walls and Fences: These are usually built on the land belonging to the person responsible for them, with the boundary marked by the far edge.
• Fence Frames: Typically, the frames or posts are on the owner's side, with the neighbour seeing the "good" side of the fence. This pattern is often repeated on both sides.
  
  

Erecting a New Fence

If you're installing a new fence, consider using double-sided panels. These panels present a "good" side on both faces, eliminating disputes over who gets the better view.

Check Your Paperwork

To confirm ownership, review the title deeds of your property. If you can't find this information in your documents, contact the solicitor who handled your conveyancing. Alternatively, you can check the plans registered with the Land Registry, which may involve a small fee. Be sure to use the official gov.uk website to avoid unnecessary charges.

Understanding Title Plans

In England and Wales, boundary ownership isn't always specified in title deeds. However, if it is, you'll see markers on the plans:

• "T" Marks: If a "T" is on your side, you're responsible for the boundary.
• "H" Marks: An "H" (or two joined "T"s) indicates joint responsibility.
  
  

For joint boundaries, you'll need to coordinate with your neighbour on maintenance or consider a formal agreement, which should be legally recorded.

What If There's No Information?

If your deeds don’t clarify ownership, you have options:

1. Registry of Deeds: Search for records of unregistered land.
2. Boundary Agreement: Establish a formal agreement with your neighbour, which can be legally recorded to avoid future disputes.
   
   
   

Dealing with Fence Damage

When Your Fence Blows Over

There's no legal obligation to have a fence unless specified in your title deeds or for pet containment (which can be legally ambiguous). If a neighbour's fence falls into your garden, they must remove it but aren't obliged to replace it.

In most cases, neighbours resolve these issues amicably, but if not, you might need to erect a fence on your side to maintain privacy.

For emergency fence repair advice, contact Stevenage Fence Experts.

Neighbour's Fence Neglect

If your neighbour refuses to repair their fence, your options are limited. You can erect a new fence on your property, parallel to theirs. This solution covers the unsightly fence but maintains your boundary.

Painting a Neighbour's Fence

You need your neighbour's permission to paint their fence. Coordinate with them to manage any paint bleed-through. Avoid hanging items or leaning objects against their fence without consent, although lightweight climbing plants are generally acceptable.

Fence Height Regulations

Fence heights are governed by planning policies:

• Rear Gardens: Fences can be up to two metres high.
• Front Gardens: Typically limited to one metre.
  
  

Always check with your local planning office and discuss any plans with affected neighbours.

Resolving Boundary Disputes

The best way to resolve disputes is through direct discussion with your neighbour. The Land Registry website offers useful information on this topic. If necessary, seek assistance from your local council planning department or consult a solicitor for legal advice.

Expert Help and Advice

For any questions about erecting, repairing, or treating fences, speak to the experts at our branch. We offer a comprehensive range of fence panels, posts, and repair materials, available for collection or delivery within our service area, usually within 72 hours.

Ask the Fencing Experts

For more advice on fence repairs, give us a call today. We are always ready to help you with your fencing needs.