River Trails Homeowners Association

Hi Neighbors, just looking for some words of wisdom. Our fence is in desperate need of replacement as many fences around the neighborhood appear to be... We have found our contractor and are excited to move forward with replacing our current weathered rickety fence with an 8 foot board on board red cedar fence. With that said, we live on a corner lot, so 2 "street facing sides" and 2 sides that share with our neighbors. We are prepared to cover the entire expense of replacing this fence but would like some feedback if it would be appropriate to ask our neighbors on the shared sides if they would like to "chip in". In addition, I am not sure whos "fence it is" but if I replace it can I install with the post side facing out? Of course on the street facing sides we will have the "pretty side" out but the shared sides I would prefer to keep the "pretty side" facing us. Any feedback would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

It is a common fence, so yes, they should split the cost whether or not you have the pretty side or not. However, some people don't look at it that way. They think that if you have the pretty side, you should pay for it. Not true! Good luck.

You may also have a neighbor who will tell you they can't afford it. That is the problem I am having with my neighbors. I have suggested having a yard sale and using the money to go towards materials, labor etc., but no luck.

It doesn't seem fair, but that's the way it works, unfortunately.

There's also the other side of the coin: You may have some very cooperative neighbors who are willing to split the cost with you. Hopefully, you have some of those neighbors.