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A setback is an area of space between your fence and the property line, meaning you build a fence a few inches before your neighbor’s property begins. You can build your fence on a setback—some communities recommend this—but this means a sliver of your property will be on your neighbor’s side of your fence.

Who pays for a new fence between neighbors depends on its location relative to the property line. If you build the fence entirely on your property, you are solely responsible for the costs of installation, maintenance, and repair. If the fence is built directly on the property line, both neighbors are typically responsible for the costs. In this case, it is essential to consult with your neighbor beforehand to agree on a plan for payment. While you should always inform your neighbor of your plans in advance, you generally cannot force them to contribute financially unless there are specific local laws, such as in California, where both parties might be responsible for costs unless a different agreement exists. It's a good idea to get a property line survey to know the exact boundaries before building.

The most durable metal for a fence is wrought iron. With proper care, a wrought iron fence can last for centuries. This means regular resealing to stave off rust and corrosion, especially in coastal climates with salty sea air. In these environments, chain link and corrugated fencing tend to stand up better to the elements with fewer maintenance needs.

Since wood is weaker when installed horizontally versus vertically, a horizontal fence is prone to sagging. You can prevent this drooping from happening by building a sturdier fence. Use softwoods that are more stable, such as cedar and redwood, or denser hardwoods for your fence materials. If you can’t afford these pricey materials, use thicker two-by-six pressure-treated pine boards or shorten the span the fence boards have to cover by installing more posts.