In most cases, fencing can improve the curb appeal of a home and make it a more practical, safe place to live. However, not everyone has a quality, well-maintained fence on their property. Sometimes, if your neighbors already have a border fence on their side of the boundary line, you are stuck with whatever they choose, even if you don’t like it.
In these instances, you must be careful with how you handle the discussion. Some people may not take kindly to the fact that you think their fence doesn’t look nice or is not maintained well. However, if you follow these tips, you may be able to convince your neighbor to revamp their boundary fence for you to share.
Tip # 1 – Offer to split the cost of a new fence
Instead of asking your neighbor to restore their old fence, come to them with a proposal for an entirely new fence that you are willing to share the cost to build. Let them know you’re going to rebuild the fence on your side of the property line, and that you’d like to split the cost to have a fence that matches on both sides.
Tip # 2 – Maintain your side
You may not be able to convince your neighbor to redo your shared fencing with them, but there are some steps you can take to make your side look a little better. By cleaning, sanding (for wood fencing), and repainting or staining, you can make your side look much better with minimal effort.
Tip # 3 – Offer to replace broken or dilapidated areas of your fence.
If only a small section of the fence looks rough, you may want to offer to fix it yourself. Wooden and vinyl fences can be partially repaired if the fence posts and general construction are in good shape. With some new boards and a fresh coat of paint, you may be able to like your border fence without replacing it.
Tip # 4 – If all else fails, build a separate privacy fence
If your neighbors have a fence you simply don’t like, there’s no reason why you can’t build a separate fence bordering it so you don’t have to look at it on your side of the property. This can make your property feel more like yours, and even though it might be more expensive to not share the costs of the border fence, it will be worth it when you’re finally happy with your home landscaping.
FloriFence understands the frustration that goes into negotiating with a neighbor over a fence. If you are still having trouble and would like a second opinion, give us a call today!
FloriFence LLC. 