Moved into new home neighbor puts up fence next day?
Question:We purchased a new home in a nice neighborhood. The next day after we moved in, the neighbor put up a white picket fence between our home and theirs. My question is two parts. Don't you think this could be interpreted as a rude geusture without at least saying something to us? Here are brand new neighbors. We did not and never would do ANYTHING to annoy our neighbors. A fence is fine, I wanted one myself, but the way this unfolded, seemed rude to us.
Second, he placed the fence right smack on the line. Everything I read, says you should place the fence 1-2 feet inside the line so that you can maintain it while on your own property. The fence actually comes over the line an inch or two in spots because the layed the fence right on the stretched line.
So whatif I want to build my own fence now? We want a solid wall, cedar fence, for privacy and to keep our pooch in. So can we build ours right up against theirs? How does or should this work?
Answers:
It sounds to me like they may have been planning this before you moved in. Second, yes there should be an easement considered in placement of the fence (coded in some areas) as to prevent a legal mushroom and forever-lasting harsh feelings between neighbors. Third, why take offense to Their fence if you plan on a fence anyway? That's being trifle. If you want to press the issue check with the local building authorities, but you'de be better off knocking on their door with a pitcher of lemonade in your hand.
Sounds like you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. No one goes out and buys a fence and puts it up without planning unless they are total idiots. In which case be glad he put up the fence.
If you want to put up your own fence, which would look dumb, why not plant evergreen hedges. Plant them about a foot away from his fence. They will grow and you can trim just your side. Looks better than any fence too.
If it was the next day, then I would say that your neighbor had problems with the previous tenants. I hate to say it, but sometimes I am nonconfrontational. If I had a problem with a neighbor and couldn't address it, I would do something like that in haste and usually I regret it. I would give them a chance for a few days and don't judge them yet. As far as the privacy fence goes, if you become friendlier with them, I would ask their opinion. If things don't improve, then put it snug against it.
I see no problem with them putting the fence up, as it was probably planned for awhile.
Although putting things directly on the property line may be illegal and is just rude.
You could report him, but that would be a bad start to maybe good neighbors.
I'd let it slide for now, but if you ever need leverage, be sure to stick it to him.
I wouldn't necessarily call this rude, as there could be many reasons for this fence, such as, maybe the fence was in his plans for many months, weeks or whatever. Could there be a simple reason like maybe he has a dog that he doesn;t care to bother the neighbors, and there could be other reason of which neither of us are aware.
Now, as far as him putting the fence on the line, that depends on the local building codes in your area, so check that point out, and it should never infringe over your property line, and the finish side of said fence should face your yard, not his.
As far as your desire to build a solid wall fence, I would take that up with the building department also.
Now, lets look at it in a different angle, what if he didn't put up that fence first, but instead you put up that solid wall privacy fence, don't you think he might have the same question about your reason for doing so?
I wouldn't call it rude, as much as downright ridiculous. I suspect your neighbor knew exactly what they were doing, now it's up to you to live with it or try to undo it. First, if you had a Real Estate Agent, I'd start by calling them for advice. Second, I'd call your BUILDING CODES & ZONING DEPARTMENTS to find out the regulations on fences in your area. Do you need a permit to put up a fence? Probably. If your neighbor did not get one, then it's going to be up to them to fix the problem. If you get a pemit for your fence, then you don't have to report your neighbor, because it will be notices when the final inspection takes place for your fence! You may have to ask him to remove his fence to comply with your permit. You might have to get your property line surveyed & take this jerk to court. Whatever you do, be sure & do it correctly, then this other party can't say that you are a trouble maker. They have been there longer, but that doesn't make them right. I suspect they are counting on the fact that you are a newcomer & you don't know the laws of zoning & permits for the area. If you have a dog, then you will prevail because of the strict guidelines that are already set in place to keep your animals contained so that the public safety is not put at risk from a bite or accident that a dog could cause. Don't wait or build a fence until you get the facts from your towns officials. I live in California & we need permits for everything. Good luck & maybe now you know why the other owners moved out! I feel for you.
The first thing that I would do is look at your closing paperwork and check the final survey to make sure that the neighbor has not encroached onto your property.
Second, look at the covenants of the neighborhood. This should have the guidelines regarding fencing. If fencing isn't listed, then I would contact your HOA (Home Owners Association). Most neighborhoods have regulations regarding the type of fencing that can be installed.
Finally, I wouldn't take it personally. One evening when you see your neighbor out, introduce yourself. I am sure that the fencing wasn't an insult to you.
Good luck!!
You sound like a jackass. Your neighbor will wish he had installed a 6' privacy fence.
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