Before installing a new fence on your property, you may want to consider how it could impact your neighbors. Your experience will go more smoothly if you practice a few rules of fence etiquette. Mr. Fence of Florida is a Panama City fencing contractor and has installed many fences over the years. We know the value of maintaining good relationships, so in this article, we will discuss five things you should do in order to be a good neighbor during your next residential fencing project in Panama City, FL.
#1: Communicate
The number one rule to being a good neighbor is to communicate with your neighbors. While you don’t have to notify your neighbors of your intentions, it’s always nice to think about how your actions will affect them. It’s courteous to let them know what you are planning, and this can help to minimize any disagreements you may have in the future. Surprisingly, your neighbors may even offer to share the costs of the fence if it’s on a shared property line.
#2: Respect Property Lines
This is a basic but sometimes overlooked principle of fence etiquette – make sure you know where your property lines are! You may think you know exactly where they are, but it is your responsibility as a homeowner to verify before you begin your project. Your local county office should have accurate records, and you can also check online maps or hire a professional land surveyor to mark your lines. Make sure that you know without a doubt where your lines begin and end because there is nothing worse than installing a fence and having to rip it out and start over because you did not stay on your own property.
#3: Research the Rules
Become familiar with your local residential fencing Panama City, FL laws. If you are part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), you are sure to have rules and regulations regarding fencing. HOAs usually regulate fence height, material, and color, so be careful to follow the rules exactly to avoid any issues with your neighbors.
Even if you don’t have an HOA to answer to, you more than likely have local zoning laws that determine the specifics of your fence. Your local Panama City fencing contractor may know the local laws, but it’s your responsibility as a homeowner to make sure that you are following them.
#4: Maintain Your Fence
Being a conscientious neighbor doesn’t stop once your fence is installed. Your fence will need to be cared for in order to keep it attractive and functional. Your level of maintenance will depend upon the type of fencing material you choose. Wood will require more frequent cleaning and care, while vinyl or metal fences will require much less time and attention. Once you install your fence, it is also your responsibility to care for the side of the fence that faces your neighbor and it is your responsibility to repair or replace any damaged sections of the fence.
#5: Consider a Good Neighbor Fence
Our final fence etiquette tip is to pay attention to the position and placement of your fence. Certain types of fences look better on one side, and it’s common practice to face the better-looking, finished side towards your neighbor. The unfinished side of the fence will face inwards to your property. Certain styles look identical on both sides, so contact the fence pros at Mr. Fence of Florida to see if one of those would be a good option for your next project.
Check out our residential fencing in Panama City, FL webpage for more information about all of the different materials, styles, and decorative options available from the pros at Mr. Fence of Florida!
Ready to Start Your Residential Fencing Panama City, FL Project?
As a leading Panama City fencing contractor, Mr. Fence of Florida is here to offer reliable, friendly service. We will answer your questions, help you choose the best material for your fence, and provide you with a high-quality fence installation. For more information, give us a call at (850) 604-0900 or contact us online. We are here for all of your residential fencing projects!
