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Boundary walls advice please

2 replies

Daisydoodlepoo · 22/09/2025 13:52

Looking for some advice please. I have a corner plot detached house on an estate of 45 houses built 1994. The houses are red brick and the boundary walls are the same which gives a consistent look to the properties and estate overall. The wall at the back of my garden adjoining neighbour has a significant crack which has been there since I bought my house 8 years ago. It is not unstable and has not altered in that time, but visible in the neighbour side (I have shrubs which conceal it). When I returned from shopping today my neighbour came round and mentioned the wall which he says is getting worse. I know that I am responsible for the maintenance, but I anticipate this would a an expensive repair, so I said I would look at getting some quotes. I also mentioned maybe a fence as less expensive, but he said this would not be allowed under original covenants. I recently had to leave my job because of I'll health so I am not in a position to undertake expensive projects at present. I have looked at the restrictive covenants set by the building developers in my property deeds, but other than referencing a responsibility to maintain boundaries, there is nothing to suggest a fence cannot replace a wall. Does anyone have any experience of these issues please? I have always been in good terms with my neighbour, but feel I am being pressured to do something. The wall does not look great on the neighbour side, but could be easily concealed by a planter and shrub which is what I would have done. Also the covenants are now 30 years old and refer to no motor homes on drives for example which is not the case now, so what are the considerations If I want to replace a wall with a fence? Any guidance much appreciated.

OP posts:
TMMC1 · 22/09/2025 14:00

Consult an RICS boundary wall surveyor.

Covenants stand regardless of age and appropriateness.

Personally a wall gives you much greater security and protection and ultimately value in your home than a fence.

I’m sure repairing a brick wall isn’t going to be excessive if you find somebody experienced and competent. Subject to quotes If I were you I’d just get on with it and save any ill feeling with neighbours or indie areas and worry for you.

Daisydoodlepoo · 22/09/2025 14:20

TMMC1 · 22/09/2025 14:00

Consult an RICS boundary wall surveyor.

Covenants stand regardless of age and appropriateness.

Personally a wall gives you much greater security and protection and ultimately value in your home than a fence.

I’m sure repairing a brick wall isn’t going to be excessive if you find somebody experienced and competent. Subject to quotes If I were you I’d just get on with it and save any ill feeling with neighbours or indie areas and worry for you.

Thank you for message, I would much prefer to be able to get the wall repaired if possible. I was panicking about the likely cost of having the wall replaced but consulting a RICS surveyor so I know what I'm dealing with is very helpful advice.

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