Fencing for commercial properties often has a different set of requirements or preferences than a residential property. Depending on what the property is used for, the style of fencing may need to be more secure than typical residential fencing or built to be taller or to withstand certain elements or conditions. Here are 10 commonly asked questions about fencing a commercial property.
So, you’ve decided that it’s time to put a new fence in around your commercial premises. It’s a big investment and there are lots of things to consider. Here, we answer 10 frequently asked questions about commercial fencing to help you make a start in thinking about your new fencing project.
1) What can I do if my block isn’t square and flat?
These days in most industrial estates, the blocks are uniform, and this isn’t an issue. But that isn’t always the case. If your block isn’t square, then your fence will need some modifications, and these are best worked out in consultation with a professional fencing supplier like Jim’s Fencing. There are many fencing options available that can be used on sloping or steep ground or to address irregularities in your boundary. Your fencing contractor will be able to advise on the best solution for your premises that doesn’t compromise security or the professional appearance of your business.
2) I want to replace the neighbour’s fence on one side of my property. Do I need their permission?
It’s natural to want your business to look as good as it possibly can – and there’s a good business reason for it too because the appearance of your business (including the fence) affects your customer’s perception of your business.
But sometimes, one of the neighbours is letting you down with a sub-standard fence down one side of your property. If this is the situation, what can you do?
The first step is to discuss the issue with your neighbours to see if they’re willing to split the cost of a new fence with you. If they are, and you can both agree on the type of new fence that you’d like to install, then you can go ahead (subject to council regulations on the type of fence).
Where it gets tricky is if your neighbour doesn’t want to split the cost of the fence. In this case, you can either agree with them that you’ll pay for the fence or, you could possibly install your fence on your side of the boundary, leaving their fence intact.
The advice of a professional fencing supplier can be very useful in these circumstances as they come across these types of situations all the time. Always check on the regulations and processes for your state and in your local council jurisdiction.
3) Can I get my new fence easily repaired?
That depends on the type of fence that you choose to install. But if the ability to do easy and inexpensive fence repairs is an important consideration for you, there are plenty of fence options that will meet these criteria. Just make sure that you include it as part of your initial brief to your fencing contractor.
4) How long can I expect my new fence to last?
That depends on the type of materials you choose to construct your fence in. However, there are many fencing materials these days including steel and PVC fencing where the fence can be expected to last for 20 years or longer.
5) Can my fencing contractor also install gates and security systems?
Most fencing contractors will also install gates to go along with your fence because they’re providing a complete fencing solution. With commercial premises, security is important and if you require a security intercom to be connected to the fence, this can be arranged as part of the fence installation.
6) Do I need to use a professional to install my fence or can I do it myself?
There are no rules saying that you need to have a professional install the fence around your business. However, your business is a professional enterprise, and the look of your business says a lot about you, and how you conduct your business. So, it’s important to have a fence that looks good, can be easily maintained, and creates the right impression. For most businesses, that means that they’re best to get their fence installed by a professional fencing contractor like Jim’s Fencing.
7) Does my new fence come with a warranty?
That depends on who you purchase your fence from. You should always check with your fencing contractor about the warranty period and conditions before they install the fence. Every fence installed by Jim’s Fencing comes with a warranty. The exact period of the warranty depends on the type of fence you install, but some of Jim’s Fencing products carry warranties well in excess of 20 years.
8) Do I need to get my neighbour’s agreement to install my fence?
This can vary from state to state, but generally, you should advise your neighbour if you’re installing a new fence, particularly if it runs down their boundary. And if your new fence is replacing the existing fence, then you must discuss it with your neighbour to reach an agreement on what the new fence will be like and who should pay for it.
9) What is a fencing notice, and do I need one?
A fencing notice is a formal document that outlines all the details of the fence you are going to install including the materials it will be constructed from, colour, height, details of the contractor who will be installing the fence, an approximate cost for the fence and an outline of any contributions that need to be made by your neighbour/s.
In most states, you don’t need a fencing notice if you have already reached an agreement with your neighbour about the fence and how the cost will be divided. However, if you don’t complete a fencing notice, make sure you have confirmed in writing the agreement you have with your neighbour and that both parties have a copy of that document.
10) Are there any legalities I need to be aware of before I install my fence?
You should make yourself aware of local council regulations as they relate to fences and also your state regulations around dividing fences.
For professional fencing installation, contact Jim’s Fencing on 13 15 46.