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Yes, in many cases, homeowners insurance covers the cost to repair or replace a fence. Home insurance policies typically protect your home and other structures on your property, which often includes fences. If the fence is damaged by a covered event, such as a storm, fire, or vandalism, your insurer may cover some or all of the cost. However, coverage does not extend to damage caused by natural wear and tear, owner negligence, insufficient maintenance, or improper installation.

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.

When choosing wood for a fence, consider your budget and geographic region. The most popular and common types of wood are cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine. Cedar is a top choice due to its natural durability, resistance to rot and insects, and budget-friendly price. Redwood is another durable, tried-and-true option, though it is typically more expensive. Pressure-treated wood, such as pine, is also a widely used and popular alternative. These materials are readily available at most hardware stores, which makes future repairs and replacements easier. Their accessibility and long-lasting performance make them excellent choices for most fence installation projects.

You can use pressure-treated wood for a horizontal fence, but you’ll need to purchase a thicker and higher-quality variety to ensure it doesn’t sag or warp after you install it. Use #2 pine grade lumber and boards and thicker dimensional lumber, such as a two-by-six. You’ll also need to use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners, as the chemicals in the treated lumber will cause regular galvanized fasteners to rust.