Dealing with Neighbours

We always recommend starting with a quick, friendly chat with your neighbour about:

• Repairing or replacing the fence 
• Preferred style and height 
• Sharing the cost 

A simple conversation early on can save time, stress & delays later.

No worries — keep it simple:

• Drop your quote into their mailbox 
• Add a short note explaining you’d like the fence repaired or replaced 
• Suggest all communication be done via email 
• Invite them to get their own quotes 

Give them 1–2 weeks to respond.

Not every fencing job goes smoothly — sometimes neighbours don’t respond, disagree or make things difficult. 

Here’s what you can do next:

If your neighbour ignores you or refuses to engage:

• You can issue a “Notice to Fence” (formal legal document) 
• This gives them 30 days to respond 
• It outlines the proposed work & cost split 

In Fences Act 1968 (VIC), this is the official process.

• They are generally only required to pay 50% of a standard dividing fence 
• If they still refuse, your options are: 
  • Proceed with the work & recover costs later 
  • Go through mediation or Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal 

For more guidance, visit the Victorian Government website.

 Click the fencing in Vic tab below to be forwarded