Neighbor-Friendly Fence Advice for Homeowners

There are many reasons homeowners might decide to install a friendly fence, or better yet, a neighbor friendly fence around their property. You might want to add security and deter intruders, or you may want to enclose the area to keep small children and pets from escaping. You may even want to give yourself some extra privacy with a friendly fence– especially if houses are very close to each other.

“Good fences make good neighbors.”

– Robert Frost

Despite the many good reasons for installing a neighbor friendly fence, the last thing any homeowner would want to do is alienate or upset their neighbors. Before embarking on any project, regardless of whether you intend to do it yourself or hire a professional to do it, let your neighbors know your intention. You might be surprised that your neighbors like the idea so well that they’re willing to split the cost of doing it with you.

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Decide on the Purpose or Function of Your Neighbor Friendly Fence

Before you decide on the materials from which to make your fence, you need to think about its purpose. Some people do it to add curb appeal, while others may do it to increase the security on their property. Sometimes people feel the need to increase privacy – especially in places where houses are close together – as is the case with row houses, townhouses and other similar styles of homes. You may want to create a protective barrier around a swimming pool to keep small children from getting in. Once you figure out what purpose your friendly fence will serve, then you can think about materials.

Make Sure You Have Property Line Documentation

County assessors document property lines to calculate how much you pay in property taxes. Make sure you show your neighbors the information you get so they know that you aren’t encroaching onto their property. By showing your neighbors this information when talking to them about your plan, you give them proof that you are concerned about not offending them.

Talk to Your Neighbors About Mutually Beneficial Arrangements

If you talk to your neighbors, you may discover that your intent to install a neighbor friendly privacy fence may help them as much as it does you – especially if they were thinking of doing the same thing or didn’t know how to go about doing it. If your fence encloses one side of your neighbor’s property, they might be willing to split the cost of supplies for that part of the property. If you’re doing the work yourself, you may be lucky enough to get some extra help!

Make Sure to Get Approval From Homeowners Associations

If you live in a planned community or one that is part of a homeowners association, be sure to get approval from the association before you do anything. Make sure that you get a list of restrictions or requirements so you abide by their regulations.

Even if there aren’t any rules about hours or days when you can do the work, make a point of contacting all your nearby neighbors who may hear noise when you or the contractors you hire are doing the work. Neighbors can make plans to be away if the noise is bothersome to them. When you take the time to give your neighbors a note, you show them a courtesy they might not expect, and if you don’t know your neighbors, you can meet them then.

Talking to your neighbors to let them know that you’re doing outdoor work – regardless of whether it involves them directly, is a courteous gesture, and one that shows concern for their feelings and something that might impact them. Contact us today to see how easily Frederick Fence can make the fence building process for you – and possibly your neighbor as well!

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