Fences and Boundary Lines: What You Need to Know

 When it comes to installing new fence panels, it’s easy to focus on the style, height and finish, but one of the most important things to get right is the boundary line. A small mistake here can lead to ongoing problems, especially where neighbours are concerned.

Here’s what to consider before, during and after your fence installation.

Know Your Boundary

Before any fence posts go into the ground, take time to check where your legal boundary lies. Title deeds usually provide a general guide, but they aren’t always detailed enough to confirm the exact line. If there is any doubt, it may be worth consulting a surveyor or checking the Land Registry plan.

Most fencing contractors will follow the line of an existing fence, particularly if it has clearly defined the boundary for many years. However, fences can be repositioned over time, especially in older properties, so it is always best to be certain.

Talk to Your Neighbours First

The most important aspect of any fence installation is making your neighbours aware of your plans.

Even if you don’t have the best relationship, giving them a heads-up shows courtesy and helps prevent misunderstandings. It might not always lead to a friendly chat over the fence, but it sets the right tone.

Remember, upsetting a neighbour and going to war over a fence can lead to years of stress, legal trouble and bad feeling. In most cases, it simply isn’t worth it. A simple conversation, letter or note through the door can often avoid a long-running dispute before it even starts.

Photos: Before and After

It’s a small step that can make a big difference. Take clear photos before and after your new fence is installed.

Good installers will usually do this themselves, but it is worth taking your own pictures too. Use fixed points like corners, garden features or buildings to make sure you can show exactly where the fence stood.

Photos create a reliable record, which can help if there is ever a disagreement about boundaries or changes over time. They are also helpful if you plan to sell your property, as you can show potential buyers exactly what was installed and when.

Moving the Fence? Get It in Writing

Sometimes a fence needs to be moved slightly to correct a crooked line or avoid an obstruction. Most installers are happy to make minor adjustments, but will often ask for written confirmation from the property owner before doing so.

This protects everyone involved. If there are questions later on about why the fence is not exactly where it used to be, you’ll have a record showing the decision was made knowingly and deliberately.

Respecting Existing Fences

If your neighbour already has a fence in place, you cannot legally remove it without their permission. Even if it looks worn or is positioned awkwardly, it still belongs to them unless it clearly falls on your land and ownership is proven.

Increasingly, homeowners are choosing to install their own fences inside the neighbour’s fence line, rather than replacing or interfering with it. This is often the best approach where relationships are strained, or when styles clash. For example, your neighbour might prefer a low-level timber fence, while you want taller panels with added privacy.

Installing a fence on your own side avoids confrontation and gives you full control over the design, colour and materials.

Replacing a Fence is Stressful – Buy One That Lasts

Replacing a fence can be a major job. It’s disruptive, often costly, and comes with the same neighbourly and boundary issues all over again. It’s no surprise that many homeowners find the process stressful, especially if they’ve already had disputes or damage caused by storms.

To avoid having to go through this again, it’s worth investing in a fence with a long guarantee. Many premium fencing systems now come with guarantees of 15 to 25 years, giving you peace of mind that you won’t be doing it all again in a few short seasons.

Better still, fences with long guarantees are often treated or manufactured in a way that requires little or no maintenance. That means no need to paint, stain or treat the timber year after year. Let’s face it – nobody enjoys painting fences, and if your fence runs long or high, the job becomes even less appealing.

Low-maintenance, long-life fencing might cost more upfront, but over time, it pays for itself in saved effort, reduced replacement costs, and less stress.

Neighbourly Disputes and Private Fencing

Not every neighbourly relationship is as strong as it used to be. This, combined with the growing variety of fencing styles and increasing interest in taller, more private panels, has led to more homeowners taking matters into their own hands.

If you suspect your neighbour may try to interfere with your new fence, the best course of action is to install the fence just inside your boundary. This makes it legally yours and gives you the right to refuse any attachments, alterations or painting by others.

Having the fence fully on your land also means you can carry out repairs or replace panels later on without needing their permission.

Fence Maintenance and Ownership

There’s a long-standing assumption that you own the fence on the left or right, but this isn’t always reliable. If you’re putting up a new fence, it’s worth confirming ownership, especially if it may affect shared responsibilities.

If you own the fence, you are free to maintain it as you see fit. You can stain, paint or treat it without consulting a neighbour, and you are also responsible for keeping it in safe condition. Many people now choose fencing styles that look the same on both sides, which can reduce disagreements and improve the appearance of the boundary for both parties.

In Summary

A new fence does more than mark the end of your garden. It defines your space, adds privacy and boosts the look of your property. But before going ahead, be clear about the legal and practical aspects.

Key points to remember:

• Always check your boundary before installation

• Speak to your neighbours first, even if things are tense

• Take clear before and after photos

• Put it in writing if the fence will be moved from its original line

• Never remove a neighbour’s fence without permission

• Consider installing your own fence inside the boundary if needed

• Full control comes with full ownership

• Avoid turning a fence into a long-running dispute

• Reduce stress by choosing a fence with a long guarantee and no maintenance

Whether you’re dealing with a neighbour’s existing fence or starting fresh with a modern design, understanding the legal side will help you avoid future problems and enjoy your new fence with confidence.