Boundary Fencing: Your Comprehensive Guide by Flettons Surveyors

1. Dive into the Types of Boundary Fencing

Boundary fences come in a wide variety. Your choice should reflect your needs, whether they lean more towards aesthetics, durability, or a blend of both.

• Close-boarded fences: Built using overlapping vertical boards, these are the go-to choice for those seeking durability and a traditional look.
• Lap panel fences: Comprising horizontally placed wooden slats, they are loved for their adaptability and cost-efficiency.
• Palisade fences: If security is your primary concern, these are your best bet. They consist of wooden or metal stakes pointed at the top, deterring any unwarranted entries.
• Chestnut pale fences: Split chestnut timber gives these fences a rustic feel, making them ideal for properties aiming for a countryside vibe.
• Feather edge fences: Their design includes tapered, vertical wooden boards that overlap, ensuring a sturdy barrier against external elements.
• Ranch-style fences: These horizontally slatted structures exude a pastoral charm and are often seen surrounding farmlands and ranches.

2. Unpacking the Performance Characteristics

Fencing is more than just wood and nails. A well-installed fence offers:

• Clear property demarcation: Ensuring that there’s no confusion regarding property limits.
• Privacy: Offering homeowners a space they can call their own, without the prying eyes of the world.
• Security: A robust fence acts as the first line of defence against intruders.
• Aesthetic appeal: Enhancing the overall appearance of the property, and sometimes even increasing its market value.

3. Recognizing Defects in Boundary Fencing

All fences are not made equal, and over time, they can showcase several defects:

• Rot: Timber in contact with or below the ground is particularly susceptible. It’s also the reason why the base of fences is often the first to degrade.
• Warping: Elements like rain and sun can warp the wood, leading to an uneven fence.
• Loose or missing panels: External pressures, or even time, can loosen the panels or boards.
• Pest damage: Termites and beetles love wood, and a fence can be a feast for them.

4. How Long Does Boundary Fencing Last?

Typically, with consistent care, boundary fences can grace a property for 15 to 20 years. However, factors such as the wood quality, climatic conditions, and maintenance frequency can influence their lifespan. Timber in direct contact with the earth or buried underneath can rot prematurely; hence always anticipating a replacement is wise.

5. Inspection and Maintenance: Tips from the Pros

Regular care can add years to your fence. Here are some tips to ensure its longevity:

• Regular checks: Especially near the base. Rot often starts where the timber is in direct contact with the ground.
• Fix loose boards: Before they become a safety hazard, tighten or replace them.
• Use preservatives: Regularly treating your fence with a suitable preservative can protect it from pests and decay.
• Insect damage control: Regular inspections for termite trails or wood decay can save you a lot in the long run.

6. Boundary Fencing and Insurance

Storms, vandalism, or accidents can damage your fence. Depending on your insurance policy, you might be covered for such events. Always read the fine print and keep your insurer in the loop about any new installations or significant changes.

7. Boundary Liability

Determining liability for boundary fences can often be a complex matter, especially when property deeds or local regulations are ambiguous. Typically, in many jurisdictions, the responsibility for a boundary fence is shared equally between adjacent property owners. This means both parties should equally contribute to the cost of installation, repair, or replacement. However, it’s essential to consult the property’s deeds or title documents, as they may contain specific clauses or indications about which side holds responsibility. Additionally, local council regulations or homeowners’ association guidelines might have stipulations regarding fence maintenance and liability. Engaging in open communication with your neighbour and seeking legal advice when in doubt can help clarify responsibilities and prevent potential disputes.

8. Freeholder’s Responsibility Towards Fencing in Leasehold Properties

In leasehold properties where a specific section of the garden is demised to a leaseholder, understanding responsibility for fencing becomes crucial to avoid conflicts and ensure proper maintenance. Generally, the terms of the lease will dictate who is responsible for maintaining or replacing boundary fences.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. The Lease Document: This should be the starting point for any leaseholder or freeholder when determining responsibility. The lease may explicitly mention which party is responsible for the fencing around the demised garden area. If the lease specifically states that the leaseholder has responsibility for certain fences or garden boundaries, then they must adhere to this.
2. Common Areas: In some leasehold arrangements, even if a garden is demised to a particular leaseholder, the boundary fences might still be considered a ‘common’ area. In such cases, the cost of maintaining or replacing these fences typically falls on the freeholder or management company, and expenses might be recovered through service charges levied on all leaseholders.
3. Absence of Clarity in Lease: In situations where the lease doesn’t provide clear guidance on the responsibility for fences, it might default to the leaseholder to maintain the garden area, including its fences. However, this isn’t a strict rule and can vary based on local regulations or established practices within the property.
4. Engaging in Dialogue: If there’s ambiguity regarding responsibility, it’s often beneficial for leaseholders to engage in a constructive dialogue with the freeholder or property management company. This can lead to an amicable resolution without resorting to legal measures.
5. External Factors: In some cases, local council regulations or other legal stipulations might impact responsibility determinations, especially if they concern safety or privacy regulations related to fencing.
6. Insurance Implications: Leaseholders should also check with their property insurance. Sometimes, policies might cover damages to fences due to events like storms, even if maintenance responsibility falls on the leaseholder.

For anyone living in a leasehold property with a demised garden section, it’s essential to familiarise oneself with the lease’s terms and conditions. When in doubt, consulting with a property solicitor can provide clarity on the responsibilities surrounding boundary fencing.

Wrapping up

Boundary fencing serves multiple purposes – from marking property boundaries to enhancing aesthetic appeal and ensuring security. When installing or maintaining a fence, always prioritize quality. After all, a good fence makes for great neighbours! And if you ever find yourself at a crossroads, remember that Flettons Surveyors is just a call away. Because your property, and its boundary fence, deserve nothing but the best.