A long boundary needs a clear picture
With a boundary that runs the full length of a garden, small differences at one end can become big ones at the other. Before you speak to the neighbour, walk the line yourself and note the state of the old fence, where it leans and where it has been patched. Having a clear picture of the fence means you can explain exactly what you have in mind.
When you talk to them, describe the plan in plain terms. Say the rough height, the type of fence and where it starts and ends. Offer to show them on site instead of trying to explain it across the doorstep. People find it easier to agree to something they can see, and a walk along the garden often settles more than a long message would.
Agreeing where the fence will stand
Along a long run, the old posts may not sit exactly on the true line, and over the years fences wander. Look at the line together and agree where the new one will go, ideally on or close to where the old one stood. A string pulled tight between the ends is a simple way to show what you mean.
If you or your neighbour disagree about where the boundary lies, do not push it. Check the deeds, ask the council or take advice, because we are fencers, not solicitors, and this is general information only. Who pays for the fence is for the neighbours to agree. Some people split it, some do not, and neither is wrong as long as you both understand it.
Working from their side
On a long garden, the work may need access along the neighbour's side to remove old panels or set posts cleanly. Ask early and explain how long a stretch of their garden will be affected, without making promises about timing. Offer to move anything of theirs that is close to the boundary, such as pots, trellis or climbers.
Most neighbours are fine with sensible access when they have been asked politely. If they would rather the work was done only from your side, say so to us and we will plan around it as far as is practical. Either way, a courteous word at the start and a thank-you at the end keeps relations good for the years ahead.
Quick tips
- Walk the whole boundary first and note where the old fence leans, so your description to the neighbour is accurate.
- Show them the plan on site with a string line instead of trying to describe it from a doorstep.
- If the line is disputed, stop and check your deeds or ask the council before going further.
- Offer to move pots, trellis or climbers along the boundary, and thank them once the work is done.
If you are planning a long run of new fencing in Brierley Hill and the DY5 area, call us or send a photo with the fence location and we can talk it over. We also work in Kingswinford and Quarry Bank, with no pressure at all.
Frequently asked questions
How should I explain a plan for a long run of fence to a neighbour?
Describe it in plain terms: the rough height, the type of fence and where it starts and ends. Better still, walk the line together on site, since people agree more easily to what they can see. In Brierley Hill the boundary is long, so a clear picture matters.
Can the work be done from my side only?
Often the crew needs a little access on the neighbour's side to remove old panels or set posts cleanly. Ask early and offer to move pots or climbers. If they would rather we stayed on your side, tell us and we will plan around it as far as practical.
Garden fencing installers in Brierley Hill · All advice guides