When constructing a new South Carolina residential fence, it is always advisable to consider the impact it may have on your neighbors. Practicing proper fence etiquette will help you both have a positive experience. Here are some fence etiquette tips to keep in mind before you start building your new fence, along with the wide range of choices you have when hiring The Fence Company Columbia, a reputable SC fence company, to install it! For advice on maintaining appropriate fence etiquette, continue reading.
It Is All About Communication
Maintaining open lines of communication with your neighbors is the first and most crucial rule of proper fence etiquette! It is always important to think about how changes to your property might affect your neighbors. Those who will be impacted by your plans should be informed, even though you are not obligated to do so. In this way, you can steer clear of any future surprises or disputes. If it turns out they might be willing to split the project’s cost, you might be pleasantly surprised!
Respect Property Boundaries
Another important rule of proper fence etiquette is to ensure that your new South Carolina residential fence is constructed within your property boundaries. You owe it to your neighbors and yourself to confirm the exact boundary of your property, even if you are confident in it. If you are unsure where your property starts and ends, you should contact your county recorder or assessor’s office. Many counties now provide online maps that can be used to locate your property’s border. Another option is to hire a qualified land surveyor to stake out your property boundary prior to installation.
Understand the Rules
The following piece of advice on proper fence etiquette is to familiarize yourself with zoning laws and neighborhood norms. Read the fine print; if you are a member of a homeowner’s association (HOA), you can be sure that they have rules regarding fences. Your neighborhood’s fence height, materials, and even color may have been determined well before you moved in.
Even if you do not live in a homeowners association, building your new fence may still be impacted by certain local zoning regulations. This is particularly relevant if your home is situated on a corner lot, as a tall fence in the front yard may obstruct your ability to see oncoming traffic at the intersection. While your SC fence company might be knowledgeable about local laws, it is not their responsibility to make sure your new fence conforms with every HOA regulation or municipal ordinance.
Routine Maintenance
Another essential element of proper fence etiquette is maintenance. To stay secure and appealing, a fence needs to be maintained on a regular basis, just like any other part of your house. The amount of maintenance needed can vary depending on the materials used. Certain materials, such as wood, require more frequent washing and resealing. On the other hand, a metal or vinyl fence will require much less upkeep. Remember that you are also in charge of keeping both sides clean and maintained. It is your responsibility to have your South Carolina residential fence fixed or replaced if it ages or begins to lean.
Consider a Good Neighbor Fence
The location of your fence is the final fence etiquette point we will cover. One side may seem more attractive than the other, depending on the kind of fence you intend to install. Facing the completed side of the fence—also referred to as the “good” side—against the street and your neighbor’s yard is standard procedure. You could, however, consider installing a good neighbor fence with the same appearance on both sides, such as an aluminum or vinyl fence. Give The Fence Company Columbia’s experts a chance to show you our wide selection of fencing options that are attractive from both sides.
Ready to Start Your South Carolina Residential Fence Project?
You can count on a reliable SC fence company like The Fence Company Columbia to help you with your fence project. We’re here to help and make sure you don’t run into any issues along the way. Please reach out with any questions to talk to our fence professionals, or you can also call us at (803) 566-0172
or contact us online for fast, friendly service!
