Fencing for Body Corporates: Approvals, Costs and Keeping Residents Happy

In this post:

• Who's usually responsible for fencing in a complex
• What committees need before they can approve the work
• How to keep residents happy while the job is on

Fencing a townhouse or unit complex is a different job to fencing one house. There's a committee to approve it, a budget to manage, and residents who still need to get in and out, park their cars and walk their dogs while the work is happening.

Who's responsible?

It depends on where the fence sits and what the by-laws say. Boundary fences around the complex are often common property, so the body corporate is responsible. Fences between private courtyards may belong to the lot owners.

Your body corporate manager can usually confirm this from the community management statement.

What committees need to approve the work

• A clear, itemised quote they can compare and minute.
• The exact product, colour and height, so it matches the complex.
• Licence and insurance details for their records.
• A plan for access and timing, so residents know what to expect.

Most delays come from going back and forth for information. Having everything in one pack saves weeks.

Keeping residents happy during the job

• Give residents notice of the dates and which areas are affected.
• Keep driveways, paths and mailboxes accessible.
• Secure pets and pool areas at the end of every day.
• Clean up as you go, not just at the end.

How we help

We work with body corporates and their managers regularly. We'll put together a quote pack your committee can approve, work around residents, and keep your manager updated as the job goes.

Common questions

Who pays for fencing in a body corporate?

Common property fencing is usually paid by the body corporate. Fences between private lots may be the owners' responsibility. Check your by-laws.

Can a single owner change their fence?

Often only with committee approval, especially if it changes the look of the complex.

Managing a fencing job for a complex? Call us on 07 2141 7748 or let's have a chat.