Question over who owns fence

[B3Svert]

The boundary fence separating us and the garden that backs onto ours is in need of repair. I actually want to replace it (wire fence) with a nicer wooden fence. I went round and introduced myself to the owners of the house at the back and asked them if they knew whose fence it was, they had no idea and are not bothered by it as it's hidden from their view by various trees and bushes in their garden.

How do I find out who owns the fence, or whose land it is on? Is this through the land registry or do I need to get a copy of the deeds from the solicitor who handled the purchase of the property?

[shirt]

as i understand it:

looking at the front of the house, the boundary on the left hand side is your responsibility. my neighbour told me this as i'm replacing the fence between us, but he's been good enough to pay half anyway.

tricky situation if your neighbour is responsible as it could create friction if you ty and enforce that they sort it.

[bridgdav]

Put the fence on your side of the original wire one.. Your property - job done.

Unless you want him to pay for it..

If not - Ask for a contribution..

[JustinP1]

Ownership of the boundary fence is on the deeds.

In most modern developments the fence is jointly owned. That means you are both liable for the upkeep of it.

I would suggest that a joint venture and splitting the cost is the best way. The only thing to watch for is if you decide to pay for the fence yourself then from that time you are solely liable for the upkeep of it.

[v8 jago]

If you just want to crack on with it rather than weeks or asking and enquiring then you could put a new fence your side of the existing fence. You might end up loosing 6` but you wouldnt see the mesh fence behind your new wood fence and they cant complain about there old fence been touched.

[Simpo Two]

Both times I've bought houses the deeds have showed little red 'v's' indicating who owns (or is responsible for) the boundary.

[Sam_68]

JustinP1 said:

Ownership of the boundary fence is on the deeds.

That's the bottom line.

[jeevescat]

Generally, whoever gets to look at the back of the fence from their property owns the fence.

So a wire fence, if the wire is fixed on your side of the poles it is next doors, fixed on the other side of the poles, it is yours.

[V8mate]

Pay £3 on the Land Registry website and download a pdf of your property showing the boundary ownership.

My back garden is bordered on 3 sides too; I'm responsible fo the left hand side and the run along the bottom.