How to talk to your neighbours about replacing a fence – avoid falling foul of the law with these tips from legal experts on how to handle the situation

Garden area with a wooden decked path surrounded by stones and plants growing up the black painted fence.

When the time comes that a fence shared by a neighbour needs replacing, it can bring up a touch of anxiety – even if you have a good relationship with them.

These situations can sometimes be resolved with a five-minute conversation or tip into a tricky place of negotiations around fence rules and costs, and hopefully not legal implications.