Who owns the fence at the back of my garden?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 10, 2026
Ownership of fences
Which side of the fence do I own in my back garden?
There is no general rule about whether you own the fence on the left-hand or right-hand side of your property. So forget any 'rules' you've heard previously that state otherwise – not everyone will own the left-hand side of their fence.
Which fence do I own in my back garden UK?
The furthest edge of the fence makes up the boundary to the property. To figure out which fence is yours, look at where the frames of the fence are. Those who installed the fence should have erected it facing away from the property who owns it, so that their neighbour gets the “good” side of the fence.
How do you tell if a fence is yours or neighbors?
The best way to determine whether a fence is yours or not is by examining where it falls on the property line. If the fence is placed on your side of the property line between your house and your neighbor's, the fence is yours.
Who owns which fence in a back garden?
The transfer or conveyance deed might state who owns it, but if it's not in writing, then look out for any T-mark to the boundaries. The stalk of the 'T' will sit on the boundary and come out into your garden or property, which means that fence is your responsibility.
22 related questions foundWho owns the fence between two houses UK?
Article Summary. In England and Wales, there is no legal presumption that a person owns or must maintain a fence or other boundary barrier on the left or on the right. Ownership of the boundary is normally determined by the builder who erects the buildings.
How do I know whose fence is whose?
Each boundary should be shown in the deeds of the property as to who owns which fence. To find out which fences you are responsible for, look at the deeds of your property and see how they were allocated. In some cases the vendor has not shown on the deeds the allocation of the boundary lines.
What is the law regarding garden fences?
The laws actually state that a fence can be as high as 100 meters. However, this is only allowed if proper planning permits have been obtained. This means that any fence under 2 meters in height does not require a permit.
Who is responsible for a fence between properties?
Unless the deeds specify for the boundary to be maintained, there is no legal requirement for the owner to maintain the wall or fence or to keep hedges tidy. The owner could be liable if the fence or wall causes damage or injury because it has been neglected.
Who pays for fence between neighbors UK?
As one would expect, in most cases, the owner is responsible for any maintenance the fence may require. Again, as expected, party walls and fences would be the joint responsibility of both neighbours.
How do I find out which fence is mine?
Either fence may belong to a property, and the simplest way to ascertain which belongs to a specific property is to check the deeds. Deeds will often indicate which boundary the property owner is responsible for. The documents may state it explicitly, but if they don't then a T-mark may be used instead.
What is the 7 year boundary rule?
Some believe that there is a 7-year limit on adverse possession, meaning that a squatter can take ownership of land after they have been using that land without the owner's permission for a certain amount of time.
Which way should fence face UK?
We suggest you face the “good” side of your fence towards your neighbour. Here's why: It's simply the polite thing to do, and could help foster good relations with even the toughest of neighbours.
Can Neighbour lean things on my fence?
The simple answer is: yes, as long as you receive their express permission. Without your neighbour's permission, hanging plants, painting, or leaning something against their fence that causes damage can land you in trouble. In fact, you could be charged for criminal damage.
Does a title plan show fence ownership?
The title plan does NOT show the exact position of the legal boundary nor its relationship to the physical features adopted as the general boundary.
What part of the fence is my responsibility?
When looking at the plans, the ownership is indicated by a “T” marked on the plans on one side of a boundary. If the “T” is written on your side of the boundary, you're responsible for maintaining it. If there's an H (although actually it's two joined Ts) the boundary is the joint responsibility of both parties.
Is the left hand side fence my responsibility?
First let's clear up the age old myth of; “Each home owner is responsible for maintaining the fence on the left-hand side, as you look at the property from the road”. This is FICTION. There is no general rule about whether you own the fence on the left or the fence on the right of your property.
Who owns the boundary wall?
Who owns a property boundary? Common law rules presume that party walls, located on the boundary between two parcels of land, are owned jointly by the adjoining landowners. This is a presumption in the law and can be rebutted with strong evidence to show the structure is owned outright if that is the case.
How do I find out who owns a fence UK?
Check the title plans
According to AXA Insurance, a 'T' mark on one side of the boundary indicates that the person on that side is responsible for the fence. If a 'T' is marked on both sides, responsibility is shared between both neighbours. This is known as a party boundary.
Can I put a fence up without my Neighbours permission UK?
As long as it's not higher than 2m, your neighbour is free to put up a fence on their property. If you have an issue with the fence, you should always try to resolve the situation in an informal way. If you can't come to an agreement, you can hire a mediator or a solicitor to help.
Can my Neighbour replace a fence without my permission?
Your neighbour doesn't have to change a wall or fence just because you want them to, for example making it higher for privacy. You can't make changes to your side without their permission, such as painting it. If the wall or fence seems dangerous, point this out because your neighbour might not be aware.
What are the 4 types of boundary disputes?
What are the 4 types of boundary disputes?
- Plot line & party wall disputes.
- Fence, landscaping and outbuilding disputes.
- Access disputes.
- Adverse possession claims.
How close to property line can I build a fence?
How Close To The Property Line Can I Build? Fences are typically built between 2 and 8 inches from the line between properties. Some areas will allow the building of fences directly on the property line, but in this case, you'll have to cooperate with your neighbor and potentially share the cost of the fence.
How long do you have to occupy land before it becomes yours?
Normally, a squatter must possess land for 12 years before claiming ownership under adverse possession. Making a claim has been made more difficult since 2002 - squatters have to inform the landowner of their intention to claim possession.