I cannot keep up with my mortgage and the bank is threatening to sell
- 06.07.2026
Our boundary fence has fallen down and we need a new one. Our neighbour refuses to pay anything, saying it is our problem. I thought that neighbours share the cost. What does the law say, and what steps do I take?
The Fencing Act 1978 generally requires adjoining landowners to contribute equally to the cost of a sufficient boundary fence. The process starts by giving your neighbour a written fencing notice describing the work, the type of fence proposed, the estimated cost and the proportion you propose that each pay. The neighbour has a set period to respond with a cross-notice, and if they do not respond within the period, you can proceed with the work and then recover half the cost from them. If there is a dispute, either party can apply to the Disputes Tribunal, which can determine the type of fence and the cost. There are exceptions, for example where the fence is required due to the neighbour's use of the land for something like a pool or a farm. Get quotes and follow the notice process precisely.
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