Neighbor wants money to replace fence again.?

Question

Their big dogs keep breaking the fence boards. The fence was fine until they moved in and the dogs started jumping on it and scratching on it and now it's in horrible shape. If I pay for it, then how long before I have to replace it again. I don't want to be a bad neighbor- would pay for it if it was normal wear and tear on the fence.

Answer 1

Is the fence on the property line, on your property or on their property?

If it is on your property, call an attorney as they are liable for the damages to your property.

If it is on their property, simply install a new fence on your property and inform them if they let their fence deteriorate to the point that their dogs damage your fence you will file for damages. Or simply tear out the fence and let them deal with the dog problem.

If the fence is on the property line, repairs are to be shared by both parties.

You may need a survey to determine who's fence it really is.

Answer 2

I would explain to the neighbor that youpaid your half of the fence that was there and under normal conditions the fence would have been fine, that you understand they would like to replace it, but the fence is torn up due to their dogs.  If they would like to replace the fence they are more than welcome to at their expense.  If you have animals be sure they are not doing the same and your side of the fence is not scratched up before you say anything.  

If you choose to split the cost I suggest that you request they keep the original posts and replace the panels and that the panels are of good heavy quality, not thin cheap boards.

Answer 3

Explain that to the neighbor.

Answer 4

why should YOU have to pay for a fence that it THEIRS that THEIR dogs tore up?

Answer 5

Just about everywhere in the world, if a person owns a domesticated animal, they are responsible for any action that animal takes including damaging property.

It sounds like the dogs & fence bellong to the neighbor and you are looking at a mess of a fence and wanting to know if you paid for repairs, how long the repairs would last. It'll last as long as the neighbor has better control keeping their dogs off the fence. You do have a right to ask the neighbor to at least split the cost of the repairs on the basis you have a unsightly looking fence to look at.

Answer 6

I'm with Mark L - whose fence is it?

Add: Ok, so the fence rides the property line?  It should be obvious where the damage originates - his side or your side.  If the dogs are scratching on it, the scratches should be on his side.  Where else does the fence run?  Meaning, is it around your property and his property?  Or does it just seperate the line?  I am just wondering because if it runs where the dogs can't get to, then you can point that out to him.

Answer 7

I'm confused by your question. Who owns the dogs and whose fence is it?

Answer 8

video tape the dogs doing the damage

that will prove to them that their pets are causing the damage

I would go 1/4 on the cost of the fence due to overbearing circumstances and note to them that it will be their responsibility to do any and all repairs caused by their dogs if those repairs are less then 15 years. (the normal life of a fence)