You’re getting ready to install your first fence, but before you can begin, you must consider how a new fence will affect your neighbors. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of good fence etiquette along with the nearly limitless choices offered by Fencing Unlimited—your premier Alabama residential fence company. To learn more about our services as fence and gate experts and gather some quick tips about proper fence etiquette, keep reading!
#1. Start with a Conversation
The first step to installing a good neighbor fence is having a conversation with your neighbors. Having good communication with your neighbors is critical because, in every neighborhood, changes to your property affect more than just you. While you are not required to notify your neighbors about changes to your property, it is a common courtesy to reveal your plans to anyone affected by the new fence. With open communication, you can avoid potential problems or disputes, and as a bonus, your neighbor may even be willing to share the cost of the project with you!
#2. Respect Property Lines
This is a basic (but often overlooked) principle of fence etiquette: know where your property lines are! As a homeowner in the Central Alabama region, it’s your responsibility to verify where property lines start and stop before fence installation can begin. Your local county office should provide accurate records for you to see, or you can hire a professional land surveyor to mark your lines. No one wants to install a fence only to rip it up and have to start over, so make sure that you know exactly where your property lines begin and end—and your neighbors will thank you for it!
#3. Know the Rules
Next, research the rules. If you are a part of a homeowner’s association (HOA) in the Central Alabama region, you will learn many fencing rules. HOAs may regulate fence height, material, and color, so be careful to follow the existing rules. Even if you don’t have an HOA to answer to, you probably have local zoning laws that determine the specifics of your fence. Your local Birmingham, Alabama fence company may know the local laws, but ultimately, the responsibility falls on you as the homeowner to follow them.
#4. Ongoing Maintenance
Being a good, conscientious neighbor doesn’t end the day your fence is installed. To keep your fence attractive and functional, it may need to be maintained throughout the years. The maintenance required depends on the material: wood requires frequent cleaning and care, while vinyl, chain link, FenceTrac, aluminum, or ornamental steel fences are more maintenance-free and easy to care for. Once your fence is installed, it is also your responsibility to maintain and repair damaged sections of the fence, even the side that faces opposite from your lawn.
#5. Consider a Good Neighbor Fence
Finally, our most important fence etiquette tip: pay careful attention to the placement of your fence. Certain fences have a more (or less) attractive side, and it is common practice to face the better-looking, more complete side facing your neighbor’s property. If you want a fence style that looks great from every angle, our experts at Fencing Unlimited can help you find and install the perfect fence for your next residential fencing project.
For more information about our Birmingham, Alabama fence company and all of our materials, styles, and decorative options, check out our Fencing Unlimited FAQs!
Ready to Start Your Fence Project With a Reputable Alabama Fence Company?
With our top-rated Alabama residential fence company, you can have total peace of mind about your next project We’re here to help eliminate any issues, confusion, or stress during the decision and installation process—and to ensure your neighbors are just as pleased with your new fence as you are! If you need inspiration or simply want to view our handiwork, take a look at our growing photo gallery!
To speak to the Fencing Unlimited pros, call us at (205) 336-2464 or contact us online for fast, friendly service.