Fence Repairs

With the high winds we had in the past week or so, we had a couple of sections of our fence blow down and a few others need replacement as well.

Since it's an existing fence which we went through the modifcations subcommittee for approval before we built it, it's my understanding that since we're only making repairs and not replacing the fence with another style, we don't have to re-apply for permission to do this.

However, here's the problem.

Since our fence was built, our next door neighbors also partially put in a fence of a different style which they built themselves - it's still not finished and has been that way for over a year. Instead of tying into our fence (which is on the property line), they built their fence right inside the property line and next to our fence. I have no idea if they applied for permission to build the fence or not.

In order to do the repairs we need (replacing 2x4's and renailing pickets), we can't get to the fence to do it unless we either take their fence down or we turn our sections of fence around so the "nice side" faces inward. The property (a single family home) is actually a rental so the owners aren't there to speak with.

I need to get these repairs made as soon as possible because we have both a dog and children who use the backyard. Unfortunately, some of the children who use the backyard "bolt" so there needs to be an enclosed area in which they play - going to the park isn't an option with these kids.

Is it permissible to "turn the fence around"? We're talking about a 12 foot section of fence. What are my options? I don't want to not comply with the HOA regulations but I also need to get this work done.

 

The HOA does not approve fences that are built like your neighbor's. Adjoining fences are approved to tie in at the corner of the lot only, for the reasons you describe here. Please notify the HOA office and they'll check to see if your neighbors are in compliance or not. If the renter's put the fence up without the approval of the owners or the HOA then there is a real problem there.

Please contact the HOA as soon as you can with all the details.

 

Thanks! I'll be contacting the HOA first thing Monday morning.

We're trying to set up a time with the fence company to fix our fence and it looks like sometime next week so I'd like to get this resolved quickly.