6 things you need to know

■ Before putting up a boundary wall you are legally obliged to consult your neighbours, although this law does not apply to fencing.

■ If your house borders a listed building, any changes to your boundary may also require planning permission.

■ Ensure fences are no higher than the 2m legal limit. Hedges and trees may be taller, as long as they are maintained and don’t cast too much shade on neighbouring homes.

■ In areas with open-plan front gardens, there is often a restriction on fences or hedges and planning permission must usually be sought – see hedgeline.org.

■ The general rule is if the ‘good’ side of the fence faces into your neighbour’s garden (that is, the struts or posts are on your side), it’s up to you to maintain it.