Simple home improvement projects like fence installation keep properties looking their best but can sometimes cause problems between neighbors. Want to avoid potential drama with the neighbor? We don’t blame you. Living beside people with whom you’re friendly -or at best, not on bad terms with-makes life easier and less stressful. If fence installation is a project in the near future, now is the time to learn proper fence etiquette. Using proper etiquette during installation provides a more positive outcome for everyone and diminishes the risks of disturbing the neighbors.
If you want the benefits of fence installation without causing a rift between the neighbors, follow these simple rules of fence etiquette.
Talk to the Neighbors
Before the first fence post arrives on your property, consult with the neighbors regarding your plans to install a fence. Fence installation affects the neighbors, not only your home and family. They may feel exactly the opposite feelings about the fence going up. Keep the neighbors in mind as you prepare to install the fence to keep everyone happy.
Discussing plans could benefit you in a multitude of ways. Maybe the neighbors love the idea of fence installation and want to split the costs with you! Talking to the neighbors before making drastic changes certainly has its advantages.
Conversing with the neighbors ahead of fence installation isn’t required. You worked hard to purchase your home and don’t need permission from anyone (except, of course, the city of Denver and your HOA) to install the fence. However, keeping neighbors in mind during projects of this magnitude reduces the odds of living next door to potentially hostile enemies. Reverse the situation and you’d likely hope for the same type of respect.
Learn the Location of Property Lines
Find out where property lines start before starting any fence installation project. This information is found in your home’s plats. Or, you can hire a surveyor to come out to determine the location.
Once you know the location of the property lines, build the fence at least six inches within your property. This is just another way to keep neighbors in mind during major projects and eliminate or reduce problems.
Completing this step now can save trouble in the future, especially if you decide to move away or if the neighbors pick up and move elsewhere.
Learn More About Zoning Laws/HOA Laws
Denver has strict zoning laws in place regulating factors such as the location the fence can be built and its height. Before the project begins, educate yourself regarding zoning laws in Denver. Otherwise, you could waste money on materials and service that isn’t allowed in the city and potentially face fines in the future.
Additionally, read over your HOA regulations to learn if the fence installation fits within the perimeters of your contract. Most HOA contracts allow fence installation but this certainly varies from one property to another.
Give Neighbors the “Good” Side
Fences have two sides. One side called the “good side” is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The backside is the side where rails, posts are visible. Be the good neighbor and post the backside on your side of the property. The neighbor will appreciate the beauty.
Or…Choose a Neighbor-Friendly Fence
Fence materials, styles, and designs vary so everyone can build a fence that meets their exact needs. Wood, aluminum, privacy fences, and vinyl are popular fence materials used at residential locations, but several other options exist.
An example of the other fence option is the neighbor-friendly fence. Available in the same exciting options as other fences, this fence style ensures everyone is happy by making both sides the “good side.” No one has the backside and everyone gets what they want. This fence style is especially beneficial when splitting the costs of the fence installation project.
Interested in learning more about a neighbor-friendly fence? Give Denco a call to learn more.
Maintain the Fence
A decrepit fence brings down the appeal and value of the neighborhood. Without proper maintenance and upkeep, fences deteriorate, experience weather damage, fade and face other problems. Keep neighbors happy and prolong the lifetime of the fence with regular maintenance.
The good news is that most fences last and last without the need for maintenance and upkeep. You should regularly inspect the fence to keep an eye out for missing rails or screws and clean it with a power washer once per year to remove dirt, leaves, grime, etc. Keeping a fence beautiful is pretty simple and part of the responsibility a fence owner takes on. Follow etiquette and maintain the fence.
Fence Etiquette
Installing a fence can potentially cause trouble with the neighbors but it’s nothing a little bit of kindness and consideration cannot conquer. Follow the fence etiquette tips outlined here to keep peace with your neighbors and maintain the best possible relationship with them throughout this and many other home renovation projects in the future.
Now’s the time to pick up the phone and call Denco at 303.223.6902 to schedule your free fence consultation.
Need an expert opinion? Talk to our experts today!
When you talk to our experts at Denco Fence Company, we’ll help you compare fence styles, share design ideas, and answer any questions along the way. If you’re looking to build or repair a fence that you and your neighbors are going to love, get a free estimate and let us help bring your project to life.