Fence disputes are plaguing Brits across the country, with countless homeowners locked in bitter rows over who should fix boundary fencing. Experts from Jacksons Fencing have revealed there's only one foolproof way to settle these arguments once and for all.
Quick clues that may indicate ownership
A quick clue is checking which side of the fence faces your property - homeowners typically position the 'good' side outwards. The professionals explain: "Typically, you can guess who owns a fence by seeing where the rails are, with the fence typically facing away from their property so that their neighbour gets the 'good' side of the fence." However, this method isn't guaranteed to be accurate.
The definitive method: checking title documents
The only definitive way to determine ownership is by checking the Title Plan or Land Registry documents. A 'T' symbol shows who the boundary belongs to and establishes responsibility for maintenance. If the 'T' appears on both sides forming an 'H' shape, it's shared ownership and both neighbours must work together.
What if your neighbour refuses to fix a rotting fence?
But even if your neighbour owns a rotting fence, you can't force them to fix it. Jacksons Fencing warned: "Frustratingly, there is no way to make your neighbour repair their fence, even if it is rotting and making your garden look unsightly." The only solution may be installing your own fence within your boundary right next to theirs.
