Which Fence Is Mine?

Fence issues can be a common source of confusion and conflict between neighbours. Whether your fence is damaged, you're unsure about property boundaries, or you need to determine who is responsible for fence maintenance, having a clear understanding is crucial. This guide aims to clarify ownership and responsibilities regarding garden fencing in Sheffield.

Determining Fence Ownership and Responsibility

Communication is Key

When dealing with fence-related issues, the first step is to discuss the matter with your neighbour calmly to reach a mutual agreement. Knowing the ownership details beforehand can help in these discussions.

Visual Clues

Forget the "left-hand" or "right-hand" rules you've heard about – they don't exist. Instead, look for these visual indicators:

• Walls and Fences: Typically built on the land of the person responsible, with the boundary marked by the far edge.
• Fence Frames: Usually, the frames or posts are on the owner's side, showing the "good" side of the fence to the neighbour. This pattern often repeats on both sides.
  
  

When it comes to fence installation Sheffield customers could consider using double-sided panels to present a "good" side on both faces, eliminating disputes over who gets the better view.

Checking Your Paperwork

Reviewing Title Deeds

To confirm ownership, review the title deeds of your property. If this information is missing, contact the solicitor who handled your conveyancing. Alternatively, check the plans registered with the Land Registry, which may involve a small fee. Use the official gov.uk website to avoid unnecessary charges.

Understanding Title Plans

In England and Wales, boundary ownership isn't always specified in title deeds. However, if it is, you’ll see specific markers:

• "T" Marks: If a "T" is on your side, you're responsible for the boundary.
• "H" Marks: An "H" (or two joined "T"s) indicates joint responsibility.
  
  

For joint boundaries, coordinate with your neighbour on maintenance or consider a formal agreement that should be legally recorded.

When There's No Information

If your deeds don’t clarify ownership, you have options:

• Registry of Deeds: Search for records of unregistered land.
  
• Boundary Agreement: Establish a formal agreement with your neighbour, which can be legally recorded to avoid future disputes.
  
  

Dealing with Fence Damage

When Your Fence Blows Over

There's no legal obligation to have a fence unless specified in your title deeds or for pet containment, which can be legally ambiguous. If a neighbour's fence falls into your garden, they must remove it but aren't obliged to replace it. Typically, neighbours resolve these issues amicably, but if not, you might need to erect a fence on your side to maintain privacy.

Neighbour's Fence Neglect

If your neighbour refuses to repair their fence, your options are limited. You can erect a new fence on your property, parallel to theirs, covering the unsightly fence while maintaining your boundary.

Painting a Neighbour's Fence

You need your neighbour's permission to paint their fence. Coordinate with them to manage any paint bleed-through. Avoid hanging items or leaning objects against their fence without consent, although lightweight climbing plants are generally acceptable.

Fence Height Regulations

Fence heights are governed by planning policies:

• Rear Gardens: Fences can be up to two metres high.
• Front Gardens: Typically limited to one metre.
  
  

Always check with your local planning office and discuss any plans with affected neighbours.

Resolving Boundary Disputes

The best way to resolve disputes is through direct discussion with your neighbour. The Land Registry website offers useful information on this topic. If necessary, seek assistance from Sheffield's local council planning department or consult a solicitor for legal advice.

Expert Help and Advice

For any questions about erecting, repairing, or treating fences, speak to one of the experts from our team. We offer a comprehensive range of fence panels, posts, and repair materials, available for collection or delivery within our service area, usually within 72 hours.

Ask the Fencing Experts

For more advice from a reliable local fence company Sheffield customers can give us a call today. We are always ready to help you with your fencing needs.