Gardeners urged to check 4 things with neighbours before altering fences

UK households have been urged to check four things before making changes to garden fences or risk landing in trouble with their neighbours.

Experts warn that small modifications to a neighbour's boundary fence, such as the placing of a bird feeder or the hanging of fairy lights, require the permission of the neighbour before they can be installed. Boundaries can often be the source of neighbourly disputes, with confusion over legal responsibilities and uncertainty about who is accountable for which boundary fence's upkeep. According to home and garden DIY manufacturer Ronseal, UK Google searches for "fence rules" have jumped by 25% each year as confusion grows over legal responsibilities and what homeowners can do to a shared boundary.

DIY and fence expert Jimmy Englezos said: "When looking to paint your fence, it's important to find out where the boundary lies between your homes and who owns each fence.

"If you're unsure, a good place to start is checking the deeds you received when you bought the property - you'll often see a 'T' indicating which fence side is your responsibility to maintain.

"If the land registry states that you are the sole owner of the fence, then you're free to make any alterations you like, including painting it. If your property is listed or on designated land, check with your local authorities first, as restrictions may apply.

"Equally, a 'H' can often be found on the boundary between both properties, which indicates that the fence is a joint responsibility between neighbours."

He shared five common garden updates which may require neighbour approval before starting, per the Scottish Daily Express, including hanging decorations such as fairy lights from a neighbour's fence.

Mr Englezos said: "If it's your neighbour who owns the fence, you must seek permission from them before making any changes to the side facing into your property. This includes decorative modifications like hanging fairy lights, or drilling holes to attach mirrors or hanging bird feeders.

"If your neighbour does give permission, and your alterations cause structural damage, for instance hanging a mirror that's too heavy for the fence, you may be liable to cover the cost of repair or replacement of the fence.

"If you own the fence, you can decorate the area however you like, as long as it doesn't place your neighbour or their property at risk."

He said people should also seek neighbour approval if they are planning to:

• Grow plants up a neighbour's fence

• Repair broken panels on a neighbour's fence

• Paint or stain a neighbour's fence

• Plant a tall tree near a neighbour's fence