Simple garden job could cause unexpected fine and neighbour dispute

As the weatherheats up, many of us are keen to tackle those last-minute summer tasks in the garden. Whether it's sorting out flowerbeds, trimming hedges, or adding a splash of colour to your fence or shed.

But could slapping on a fresh coat of paint to your garden border land you in hot water with your neighbour or even the law? It might seem like a minor issue, but if your fence faces your garden, there shouldn't be any problems, right?

Well, according to legal boffins, it's a bit of a sticky wicket. If you don't own the fence and it belongs to your neighbour, you must ask for their permission before giving it a lick of paint. In other news, Brits are told to never put one banned item in garden bins as you could face punishment.

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The same rule applies if you plan to attach anything or even carry out repairs on it. If your neighbour owns the fence, you must not "alter your side of the neighbour's fence without their permission", as per Citizens' Advice, reports the Express.

Given the number of older properties in the UK, boundary issues can be a real headache. Old by-laws, rights of way, and historically altered gardens can all add to the confusion that often crops up.

Lawsons, a timber and fencing supplies retailer, stated on its website that "only the owner of the fence may make any changes to it, even where the other side of the fence is on neighbouring property". This means that the responsibility for maintaining the fence rests solely with whoever bought and installed it.

It's not just paint or wood stain that poses a problem. Neighbours must not grow trailing plants or anything similar, as this could count as "activity which may cause [the fence] damage."

A major reason that painting or staining can cause trouble that your neighbour may spot is the risk of paint potentially seeping through to the other side, which can occur with certain types of paint, wood, and application techniques. The legal consequences of modifying a fence without consent can differ depending on local laws and regulations.

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In some areas, making alterations to a fence you don't own can result in fines or legal action. It's essential to check local ordinances or seek legal advice to understand the specific rules in your area. Without your neighbour's consent, hanging plants, painting, or leaning something against their fence that causes damage can land you in hot water. In fact, you could be charged for criminal damage.

Back in 2010, there were reports that a couple had updated their garden fence with a fresh coat of paint-and then the police arrived. The neighbour, who insisted she owned the 6ft-high fence, complained to the couple that the green splashes had ruined her side, which was painted brown. Fortunately, most disputes can be avoided with proper respect and communication.

Let your neighbour know if you've decided that it's time for new fencing or if you plan to update the colour of the fence facing your garden. Hello Magazine quoted partner solicitor Elliott Brookes, who works for the Property Disputes Team at B P Collins, about how this kind of neighbourly dispute could end with you stuck paying the bill for any damages.

There are steps you can take to make sure everyone is on the same page before you plough ahead with your DIY project. Elliott advised that the most crucial thing to do is to have a chat with your neighbour about any changes you're considering. Being open and transparent might reveal that your neighbour isn't that bothered.