Are you looking for information about your rights and obligations when building a fence? Here you’ll find details of your legal obligations as well as answers to some frequently asked questions.
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FAQs
How do you maintain a colorbond fence?
Colorbond fencing needs a little maintenance to keep it looking its best. Wash the fence down with mild detergent in warm water, using a soft-bristled brush or sponge. Powder coated fences may need to be washed every three to six months to keep them looking good.
If your fence is near salt or chlorinated water, the ocean or near an industrial area we recommend cleaning more often to protect the surface – every two to three months.
What is the legal height requirement for pool fences?
All pool fences in NSW must be at least 1.2 meters high (measured from ground level). If you have a boundary fence which forms part of your pool fencing it must be at least 1.8 meters high.
Our experienced team will ensure your pool fencing construction legal obligations are met.
Do I need to find out if there are cables where my fence should go?
Dial before you dig will provide you with a map for energy, phone cables, water pipes and gas lines, etc.
It is critical you provide this information to your fence builder prior to works commencing. Visit http://www.1100.com.au
Where does excess soil from post hole excavation go?
Any dirt or debris removed from post holes can be spread in garden beds or in some cases along fence lines. Otherwise, it is left neatly piled on-site. If you would like it to be removed from your site please request a quote to do so.
What depth are post holes & are they filled with concrete?
Post holes dug in sand are dug to a depth of 900mm. Post holes in clay are dug to a depth of 600mm.
Post holes for retaining walls are dug at a depth equal to the height of the wall.
All posts are filled ¾ of the depth of the hole with concrete then compacted with sand and or clay preventing water pooling at the base of the posts and rusting or rotting them out.
Is there a warranty on my new fence?
There is 12 months warranty on the workmanship. We can’t and will not guarantee timber products as they are a natural product over which we have no control. Some timber may twist, shrink or swell, this is out of our control.
What happens to my garden?
We take all care but cannot accept responsibility for damage to plants and or vegetation on the boundary line.
If you are concerned about plants they should be removed from within 500mm of either side of the boundary line prior to commencement of works. This allows us clear access to the line.
I have a dog, how long will the job take?
This can vary on each job. Length, access & digging are all variables. Most jobs 30m and under can be completed in a day. It is best to discuss this prior to commencement.
Can I mount a clothes line on my new fence?
We recommend independent posts for clothes lines and are happy to help with the supply and installation. Please ask us for a quote.
Is there a maximum fence height?
In NSW 1.8 meters is the highest your fence can be without council approval. The measurement of 1.8m is taken from the lowest ground level. This means when there are different levels between two properties the measurement is taken from the lowest ground level.
How is the boundary line determined?
Ideally the boundary line would be surveyed prior to installation to avoids any guessing and or problems. If the boundary line hasn’t been surveyed, the fence will go back in the same position as the one being replaced.
Who gets the nice side of the fence ie palings?
The new fence will be constructed exactly the same as the one being replaced unless a prior arrangement has been reached to change it. There is also the option to have palings on both sides of the fence at an additional cost.
If I’m paying for the whole fence do I need neighbours permission to remove old fence & install new one?
Yes. Boundary fences are a shared fence between two neighbours. Regardless of whether you are paying the full cost of the fence the neighbour should always been consulted first. Paying for the fence does not automatically give you the right to change the way the fence is facing without the consent of the neighbour.
Owner Damian Makim and his team have provided fencing and decking services throughout NSW for nearly 25 years.
They have worked with most materials and completed a vast range of job types, requirements and terrains.
Credentials
Old Mate Fencing Pty Ltd
ABN 45 123 199 342
Licence no. 236050C
All workmanship guaranteed for 12 months from date of completion.