If you are planning asbestos fence removal and replacement and share that fence with a neighbour, there are a few things to sort out before any work can start. Shared fences can be tricky, especially when both sides of the property have a say in what happens next. Who is responsible, who pays, and how work is done all come into play.

Knowing your rights ahead of time helps keep things clear and calm. It makes the job easier on everyone, reducing the chance of delays or mix-ups later.

Who Owns the Fence?

Shared fences do not always sit exactly on the dividing line. Sometimes they are fully on one property. Other times they are split down the middle. Figuring this out is the first part of the process.

In many parts of NSW, both neighbours are seen as equally responsible if the fence runs along the boundary. That means decisions usually have to be made together. But if the fence is mainly on one side of the boundary, ownership can change.

To get the facts straight, it is helpful to check:

• Property boundary drawings from your title deed
• Surveyor markings or council files to confirm placement
• Notes from any previous fencing agreements, if they exist

Reviewing these documents early can smooth out any uncertainties regarding ownership and responsibility.

This step often clears up confusion early, before you and your neighbour start making plans that do not match.

Talking to Your Neighbour Before Work Starts

A calm chat can go a long way. Before arranging work, speak to your neighbour about the fence and what you would like to do. They might be on the same page, or they might have concerns. Either way, it is better to talk early.

Here is a simple way to get started:

• Bring it up in person or by a friendly note
• Explain your reason for wanting to remove or replace the fence
• Ask to meet and agree on the next steps

Taking the time to sit down for a friendly discussion can help set expectations clearly and avoid misunderstandings later.

If things go well, jot the key points down. A written agreement does not need to be formal. It just helps both sides remember what was said about timing, type of fence, or hire arrangements.

What If There Is Disagreement?

Sometimes, one person wants to move ahead with the work but the other does not agree. This can cause delays, but it does not mean the job is cancelled. NSW fencing laws set out a few ways to move forward.

If you and your neighbour disagree, you might:

• Send a written fencing notice under the Dividing Fences Act
• Wait to see if they respond with a different view or accept
• Contact your council if the disagreement continues

Considering the possibilities and preparing for all outcomes can ensure that both parties feel secure in whatever decision is made.

This process is not about legal action. It is about following fair steps so both sides have a voice. In some cases, a mediator or local tribunal can help. Many people sort things out once they understand their rights.

Safety Rules Everyone Must Follow

If the fence contains asbestos, that changes the process significantly. Asbestos fence removal and replacement follows stricter safety rules than a standard timber or metal one. You cannot simply lift panels and haul them away.

Licensed professionals must do the removal to meet safety standards. They follow a plan that keeps everyone safe, including neighbours and workers. That usually means sealing off sections of the property while the work is happening. Sydney City Asbestos is a registered and fully licensed asbestos fence removal specialist and uses EPA-licensed vehicles to transport asbestos waste to approved facilities across Sydney, which helps keep the whole process compliant.

During removal, all neighbours have a few things to keep in mind:

• Stay out of the work zone, even if it is on your property
• Keep pets and children away from nearby areas
• Respect the timing put in place by the contractor

These steps lower the risk and help the job finish faster. Safety is not just up to the workers. It relies on cooperation from both sides.

Moving Forward Without Drama

Projects like these do not have to lead to tension. Clear planning and good communication usually prevent that from happening in the first place.

To keep things simple and respectful, it helps to:

• Agree on a timeline and avoid big changes once work starts
• Give polite updates when needed, especially for delays
• Respect access needs during removal or rebuild

Once the dust settles, both sides will benefit from the result. You will have a new fence, better safety, and no hard feelings. That is possible when everyone sticks to the plan and works together.

Getting It Done Right the First Time

Fence work, especially on shared boundaries, can stir up more questions than expected. Knowing your rights, talking to your neighbour, and staying respectful makes it go much smoother.

When asbestos is involved, it is even more important to get it done the right way from the beginning. Letting trained experts handle the removal keeps the project on track and keeps everyone safe. With some early effort, both properties can enjoy a safe, clean, and stress-free result.

Sharing a fence with neighbours often means a few extra steps, but with the right plan, managing the process becomes much simpler. At Sydney City Asbestos, we help clients every day with projects like asbestos fence removal and replacement where timing, safety, and collaboration are key. Handling older materials like asbestos can be challenging, but having experts on your side makes all the difference. Call Sydney City Asbestos to discuss your upcoming fence project or to ask any questions.