Fencing
Depending on your community, fencing may be included with your home. If you're planning to add fencing after moving in, understanding proper planning and installation is essential for protecting your investment and maintaining good drainage.
Planning and Installation
Before You Begin
If you choose to add fencing after moving in:
- Review fencing requirements for your community
- Obtain approval from your District or Homeowners Association
- Depending on your municipality, you may need a fence permit
- Call 811 for utility locates before any digging
Get all approvals BEFORE installation begins.
Professional Installation
Classic Homes recommends:
- Engage professional services to install your fence
- Inform the installer of all design review requirements
- Provide the location of your property lines
Property Lines (Critical!)
Owners are solely responsible to ensure that any fencing they install is on their property.
If fencing is not installed on your property:
- You will be responsible for all costs to correct
- Adjacent fences that may be affected are your responsibility
- This includes any removal and reinstallation required
Verify property lines before installation begins.
Protecting Drainage
When planning, installing, and maintaining fencing:
- Allow existing drainage patterns to function unimpeded
- Use caution when distributing soil removed for posts
- Don't block drainage swales with excavated soil
- Plan enough space under wood fences for water to pass through
Routine Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect for damage | Seasonally | 15 minutes |
| Check drainage around fence | After heavy rain | 10 minutes |
| Clean and treat wood fencing | Annually | Varies |
| Tighten loose hardware | As needed | 15 minutes |
Wood Fence Care
- Apply wood treatment or stain as recommended by manufacturer
- Check for rot, especially at ground level
- Replace damaged boards promptly
- Keep vegetation trimmed away from fence
Metal Fence Care
- Check for rust and treat promptly
- Touch up paint as needed
- Lubricate hinges and latches
Troubleshooting
Fence Leaning
Common causes:
- Wind damage
- Soil movement
- Post rot
- Improper installation
Solution: Reset or replace posts as needed. Consider concrete footings for stability.
Gate Not Closing
- Check hinges for wear or damage
- Verify posts haven't shifted
- Adjust latch alignment
- Lubricate moving parts
What to Avoid
- Don't block drainage - Fences that block water flow can cause flooding and foundation issues
- Don't assume property lines - Always verify before installing
- Don't skip permits - Unpermitted fences may need to be removed
- Don't ignore HOA rules - Violations can result in fines
- Don't forget utility locates - Hitting underground lines is dangerous and expensive
Cost Sharing with Neighbors
Since fence installation can be costly, consider:
- Talking to neighbors about sharing installation costs
- Coordinating timing and design choices
- Agreeing on maintenance responsibilities
- Documenting any cost-sharing agreements in writing
Related Topics
Warranty Coverage: See Fencing Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.