DIY Builds
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich Pexels Logo Photo: Nataliya Vaitkevich

Can a Neighbour paint a fence I paid for?

If your neighbour owns the wall or fence You can't make changes to your side without their permission, such as painting it. If the wall or fence seems dangerous, point this out because your neighbour might not be aware.

Should anchor line float?
Should anchor line float?

For starters, you will want an anchor rope that does NOT float. For that reason, nylon rope is the best choice. Nov 23, 2015

Read More »
What is a room above roof called?
What is a room above roof called?

Because attics fill the space between the ceiling of the top floor of a building and the slanted roof, they are known for being awkwardly shaped...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

If you and your neighbour disagree about a wall or fence, there are things you can do to solve the problem. Examples of problems could be a wall that needs repairing or who should pay to replace a fence. If you rent your home, ask your landlord if they’ll deal with the problem on your behalf. You shouldn’t make any changes to walls or fences without their permission.

If you’re not sure where the boundary is

Before you can solve the problem, you need to know where the boundary between your homes is. This will help you to understand whose property the wall or fence is on or whether it’s shared between you. The best way to find out is to check the legal documents you got when you bought your home. You can buy the documents from the Land Registry if you don’t have them - it doesn't cost a lot. It might be a good idea to buy the documents for your neighbour’s home too - they might give information that’s not covered in yours. If you’re disagreeing with your neighbour about where the boundary is, you can get help from RICS - they work with surveyors who can help with property problems. If you want to do work on a wall that’s on a boundary The wall’s likely to be a ‘party wall’ whether it’s outdoors or an internal wall. You’ll need to follow certain steps before you can do any work on it, for example giving written notice. You can check if it’s a party wall on GOV.UK. If it is, find out how to agree the work with your neighbour.

Try to find a solution with your neighbour

If you know where the boundary is and you don’t need to follow the process for party walls, the best approach is to talk to your neighbour. Talk to them face to face if you can - make a note of what you agreed. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to them, write to them or ask someone to contact them for you. Keep copies of any letters or emails you send or receive. It’s often best to find a compromise, for example sharing the cost of a new fence panel. It could help you to keep a good relationship and will probably be cheaper than paying a solicitor to resolve the disagreement.

How much does it cost to add a restroom to a garage?
How much does it cost to add a restroom to a garage?

Cost to Add a Bathroom to Your Garage Generally speaking, the average cost to add a bathroom to a garage will cost between $8,000 and $25,000....

Read More »
Do cheater vents meet code?
Do cheater vents meet code?

Avoid making a stink, do it right. Canwest News Service/An air admittance valve, or cheater vent, is not always allowable by code and should only...

Read More »

If your neighbour owns the wall or fence

Your neighbour doesn’t have to change a wall or fence just because you want them to, for example making it higher for privacy. You can’t make changes to your side without their permission, such as painting it. If the wall or fence seems dangerous, point this out because your neighbour might not be aware. If they don’t repair it, you can report a dangerous wall or structure to your council on GOV.UK.

If you own the wall or fence

Look at the legal documents for your home. They might say you have to keep the wall or fence that you’re disagreeing about in a good state of repair. You should also check if the wall or fence is safe - if it isn’t, your neighbour or the council could take action against you. If the wall or fence is safe and there’s nothing about repairing it in your legal documents, it’s up to you whether you do what your neighbour’s asking.

Get help with your dispute

Get help from a mediator

If you still can’t agree, you can get help from a mediator - this is someone who doesn’t know either of you and is trained to help people resolve disagreements. It’s a good idea to ask your council if they can help you find a mediator.

You can find your council on GOV.UK

If you still need help, you can look for a mediator on GOV.UK.

You might have to pay for a mediator.

Get help from a solicitor

If the problem continues, you’ll need to get help from a solicitor who specialises in neighbour disputes - but this will be expensive.

You can check if you can get help with costs.

How thick does a concrete shed base need to be?
How thick does a concrete shed base need to be?

Concrete Shed Base Depth For ordinary garden sheds, a thickness of 3" (75mm) is sufficient in most situations. On soft clay, or on larger...

Read More »
Should I wrap paper bubble wrap or glass?
Should I wrap paper bubble wrap or glass?

Bubble wrap is fantastic for protection. But if left in direct contact with glass items it can potentially leave circular pattern marks that are...

Read More »
What side of tinfoil is toxic?
What side of tinfoil is toxic?

In short, science says it makes no difference at all, and there is no correct or incorrect way to use aluminium foil, as confirmed by Robert L....

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Are resin sheds worth it?
Are resin sheds worth it?

If you are looking for a less expensive and weather-resistant shed, resin is the better option. Resin sheds are weather-resistant against rotting,...

Read More »