Whether you’re building a new fence or updating an existing structure, there are several points of fencing guidelines that you should keep in mind before, during, and after the process. Fencing significantly impacts the look of more than just your property – it can affect the appearance of neighboring properties and even change the look of your entire street.
Following certain guidelines can prevent encountering any problems with your HOA or with your neighbors.
- First and foremost, always remember to communicate. Share your plans with neighbors and with the HOA, when required. This will allow you to resolve any issues before construction begins. Simply letting your neighbors know to expect the upcoming change can set a positive tone for the whole construction process. Don’t feel pressure to share all of the details, for example your design choices, as that could lead to unnecessary trouble. As long as you follow all rules and regulations, your neighbors have no say in the decisions that you make for your property, for example, the design of your fence, but letting them know to expect that change can go a long way to make sure that the process is smooth sailing.
- Know the HOA Rules. The HOA has fencing standards in place for safety, aesthetic, and visibility issues. HOA rules vary from community to community- some are general, while others give more specific directives. Building materials, height restrictions, style, and uniformity can all be dictated by the HOA. Save yourself some trouble and don’t take any chances! Make sure you’re informed before purchasing any materials or making any final plans, and follow all guidelines during the construction process. Also, be sure to get your project approved at all required checkpoints to avoid fines, disputes, or other problems. If you neglect to follow the prescribed guidelines, you risk having to spend unnecessary extra money to change the fence, or even tear it down, after it is built. Remember, the goal of the HOA is to maintain neighborhood standards, ultimately preserving the appearance of the community and keeping property values high.
- Follow Zoning Regulations. Before beginning any fencing projects, study your land plat or order a new survey. Going over your property line by even one inch could result in you having to tear down your fence and start again. Professional fencing companies are often knowledgeable about local restrictions on height, setbacks, and rules specific to corner-lots, but make sure that you are also informed.
- Maintain Your Fence. After construction is complete, keep your fence clean and safe at all times. Make sure that it’s in working order and nothing is unsightly or dangerous. This will prevent fines or problems with the HOA and your neighbors.
When building or maintaining a fence on your property, following all zoning and HOA regulations will ensure that you’ve done your part to avoid any neighbor disputes or issues with the HOA. For additional questions regarding the management of your HOA, contact Spectrum Association Management today!
The guidelines for fences needs to change. Pickets are 6′ long and rot boards are usually 6″ wide. Fences should be allowed to have a range between 6′ and 6′ 6″. The fences in Brittany Lakes look horrible and these guidelines make it difficult for anyone to get them fixed. It costs more to get someone to cut 6″ off of every picket. Who ever came up with these guidelines, has never built a fence before. You need a board at the top, one in the middle and one at the bottom. This prevents the boards from bending. My fence is falling apart. Every week, a picket falls off my fence and just drive another nail through it. Like I said, our neighborhood is starting to look really bad because of the fences. My fence plan was rejected because it was 6′ 6″. I seen a lot of fences old and new that are well over 6′ in the neighborhood.