What Is Proper Fence Etiquette?

Purchasing a beautiful new fence for your yard is one of the easiest ways to add some much-needed privacy, protection, and curb appeal to your home. But before getting started with setting up your new fence, it is important to be mindful of how the planning, installation, and maintenance of the fence will affect the people who live around you.

It is important to be mindful of how the planning, installation, and maintenance of the fence will affect the people who live around you.

6 Best Practices for Maintaining Excellent Fence Etiquette

Whether it’s ornamental iron fencing, wrought iron fencing, or wooden fencing, Austin homeowners need to remember that purchasing and installing a fence comes with some expected courtesies. Not only does this help you avoid any issues with your neighbors, but it helps you stay on good terms with your town at large, too.

To ensure that everyone is happy with your finished fence installation, here are six of the best practices for following the proper fence etiquette:

#1: Check Your Property Line

Even if you’re fairly certain that you know the legal boundaries of your yard, there’s no harm in double-checking your property line with the help of a professional land surveyor. This will help you avoid any property disputes down the line, and it will save you from a lot of stress and money wasted if you accidentally install your fence a few inches off of the correct boundary.

#2: Talk to Neighbors During the Pre-Installation Phase

There’s no need to put a strain on your relationship with neighbors by installing a new fence without their knowledge. Before jumping into your fence installation, it’s always a good idea to consult with the neighbors you share a border with so they don’t feel blindsided about the process. Plus, if your neighbor is invested in the project and has ideas for a fence themselves, they might even volunteer to split the cost with you.

Overall this conversation with your neighbor is a perfect opportunity to:

• Explain your reasons for putting up the fence (ex. To have more privacy, to let the dog loose in the yard, etc.)
• Reveal the day and time that you plan to have the fence installed, especially if you suspect that it will impact their ability to use their yard
• Double-check with them that you are building the fence within the correct property line

#3: Keep Your Fence in Tip-Top Shape

Well after the initial period of installation, make sure to continue to take good care of the appearance of your fence. Think about it: fences with broken parts, rust, chipping paint, or mold and mildew buildup are sure to leave a bad impression and decrease the curb appeal for both you and your neighbors alike. Remember it is equally important to maintain the side of the fence that faces your neighbors as well.

A few tips for maintaining your fence include:

• Inspect your fence on a regular basis for damages
• Repaint or restain your fence as needed
• Regularly clean your fence to prevent dirt, rust, or mold buildup

#4: Give Neighbors the “Good” Side of the Fence

One of the most important unwritten rules of fence etiquette is ensuring that your fence’s better side is facing outward toward your neighbors and the street. This leaves the less appealing side facing in your yard. While this isn’t the case for a lot of fences that look the same on both sides, certain types of fences have posts and rails on the back that could detract from the beauty of your neighborhood.

#5: Consider the Style of Your Neighborhood

The fence that you decide upon will be viewed by many more people than just you and your family. For this reason, it is always recommended to do your community a favor by considering the style of the homes and neighborhood at large in order to choose a fence that compliments it best. This might be a new wooden fence, iron fence, or another style depending on the location.

#6: Double-Check Local Rules and Regulations

To avoid any unnecessary violations or disputes down the line, it is important to hire a fence contractor in Austin that is mindful of the local zoning regulations in your area. Furthermore, if you are part of a Homeowner’s Association, make sure to check up on any rules they might have on heights or styles before investing the money to purchase and install your new fence.

Northwest Fence & Iron: Fencing Austin Homeowners Can Trust

By implementing these best practices for proper etiquette, you’ll keep both you and your neighbors feeling stress-free throughout the planning and installation process of your beautiful new fence.

For access to the best selection of wood and iron fencing in Austin, look no further than Northwest Fence & Iron. Whether you want to replace a wood fence or install a new iron gate, our team has the skills to help you with any fencing or gate need. To learn more about how we can make your dream fence a reality, get in touch today!