My option regarding rebuild fences with neighbour?

Question

My neighbour wants to rebuilt the fence between our houses which I don't completely agree, what my choices are?

Answer 1

I think its stupid to require 50% of the cost and share ownership, its kinda like shared driveways, its almost guaranteed to cause problems. how much to spend, what materials, what color...It is going to be major conficts, And yes you can try to work it out, and perhaps it will. But some people are just set in their ways. Not to mention who gets what side facing their yard, and when it needs fixing how do they split the bill? What if they want to do it themselves, but the other wants a contractor. If theres problems with the fence, who calls the contractor? What if after the construction begins, who does the contractor listen to? Soo many questions
I would write to the city(certified mail, or take it up there personally, get the name of the person who is in charge) and tell them the situation, if they want a fence built let them assume the cost, and make sure it is properly set back away from the property line, called a setback. If the fence is on the property line write and request what they call a variance. this will allow you to use property which it was not originally set for. And they must set the fence back a certain amount of feet from the property line. this is the best way, and you are more than likely to get along with the neighbor allot better by each getting what they want.
everything in these days must be in writing, and you have to keep notes. Now that you got whos in charge, call couple days later and talk to this person. Ask him what can be done, If they won't grant you a variance request a public meeting so you can be heard. If that person dont' get you somewhere, then write to their boss, keep going until your satisfied. Yes this is work, but will save aggrivation in long run.
I doubt there will be problems with grant to variance, but better prepared than not. If you do decide to go 50% with the fence, get everything in writing regarding my questions above. Dont assume nothing!

Answer 2

Depends on building regulations in your area. Some dictate a co-ownership and require 50% of cost be shared. Others have no regulation and it is up to the person who wants the fence built. My opinion is, if you decide to split costs, you should also be able to split decisions on the type fence and the costs. Since the fence will also be protecting your property, if everything else is workable, be a good neighbor and work things out to both of your needs/wants.

Answer 3

If the fence is on your neighbors side of the property line, you might not have a choice. But if it is right on the line or on your side of the line they might not have any right to do anything with the fence. Check to see what the local building codes say about fences.

Answer 4

Depending on where you live the laws are different. I would check with my township trustee. In the country each land owner is responsible for half of the fence. Your half is on the right as you face the fence on your side of the property. Again this is the law on fences in the country in Indiana. The disputes are handled by the township trustee.

Answer 5

Go and see your city or township inspector. There are certain restriction for building a fence and if you have to check with the court house about these disputes.

Answer 6

you have 2, help him rebuild it or don't,

There are also two things to be said about fences:

1. "Good fences make good neighbors"
2. "Fences block good neighbors out "


Flip your coin and go for it -- lots o luck

Answer 7

nothing makes a better enemy than a good fence. if thiers allready a fence there and he wants to fix it whats the problem?