How Do I Know the Fence Is Going on the Right Line?

In this post:

• Why the old fence isn't always on the boundary
• When it's worth checking the line
• How the boundary gets confirmed, and how to avoid a dispute

Most people assume the old fence sits exactly on the boundary. Often it doesn't.

Fences get moved over the years. Someone builds around a tree. A previous owner put it where it was easiest to dig. Over 30 or 40 years, a fence can drift well off the true line.

Usually that doesn't matter. But if you're building something new, or if there's any tension with a neighbour, it can matter a lot.

When it's worth checking the boundary

• You're replacing a fence and the old line looks off.
• You and your neighbour disagree about where the line is.
• You're building close to the boundary, like a pool, a shed or a retaining wall.
• The block has never been surveyed, or the pegs are long gone.
• You're putting in a fence where there's never been one.

How the boundary gets confirmed

The only way to know for sure is a registered surveyor. They find the boundary and mark it with pegs. It costs money, but it's a lot cheaper than moving a fence later, or ending up in a dispute.

If the original survey pegs are still in the ground, we can work off those. If they're missing or you're not sure, a survey is the safe option.

Agree before you build

If it's a shared fence, agree on the line with your neighbour before work starts. Walk it together if you can. Put it in writing, even if it's just a quick email.

It sounds formal. It isn't. It's what stops a simple fence turning into an argument a year later.

How we handle it

Before we dig, we confirm the fence line with you. Usually that's the line of the old fence or the survey pegs.

If something doesn't look right, like the old fence clearly sitting off the pegs, we'll stop and tell you. We won't just guess.

And if you need a surveyor, we're happy to point you in the right direction and work around their timing.

If you're unsure about your boundary, mention it when you ask for a quote. It's much easier to sort out before the old fence comes down.

Common questions

Does a new fence have to go exactly where the old one was?

Not necessarily. If the old one was off the boundary, you and your neighbour can agree to put the new one on the correct line.

Who pays for a boundary survey?

Usually whoever asks for it, though neighbours often agree to share it.

Can you find my boundary pegs?

If they're still there, we'll look for them with you. If they're missing, a registered surveyor is the only way to be certain.

Keep reading

• Neighbour or body corporate approval: who sorts it out?
• Replacing a fence when there's a pool behind it
• What happens to my old fence?

Planning a new boundary fence? Call us on 07 2141 7748, get a price online or let's have a chat.