How do I find out if a fence on my property is my responsibility or my neighbour's?

Question

I have fences on 3 sides of my garden. One side needs a post to be replaced. However, it is the only fence that my neighbour has and I am pretty sure it is his responsibility. But how do I find that out for definite?

Answer 1

I would ask him. It also depends on whether the fence is on the property line. You may have to get your property surveyed. If the fence is on his side of the line, it's his responsibility, and his fence. He can even tear it down if this is the case.

One post being replaced isn't that expensive. If the fence benefits you more than the neighbor, you should just replace the post yourself.

Answer 2

,well now Jacob Marley   there ain't know seance sitting on a fence all bu yourself with a long face ,,,are you so miserable  that you cant part with the sheckles  the fence is more than likely on someones land and i guess that you being a mean old sod would claim it if it added to the value you of your mean old scene ,if its straight down the middle then you will need to share the cost for repairs  or you could let it rot and save a phew bob

Answer 3

Contact a surveyor, have your property surveyed, and they will let you know if the fence is on your property or not. If it's not, it's not your responsibility.

Answer 4

As a rule of thumb, if the posts are on your side it's your responsibility. Otherwise in UK the general rule is: looking at your property from the roadside (front), the fences/boundaries  on the righthand side are your responsibility, but check your deeds to be sure.

Answer 5

Check your property deeds.  Also maybe discuss with a solicitor if things become difficult.

Answer 6

Usually if the fence  posts are on your side of the garden it is your responsibility .This rule applies in my area written in the property deeds,most garden fences are roughly 50% posts my side 50% neighbours side.

Answer 7

It will tell you in your deeds.

Answer 8

Your property deeds tell you which bondaries of the property you are responsible for although it is difficult to force the neighbour to repair the fence if it is their responsibility and they don't really want to.

Why dont you just have a friendly chat with your neighbour, wait until a nice sunny weekend, fire up the BBQ and do the repair between you?

Answer 9

In your deeds it will tell you.