Boundary Fence Issue

New Build Inspections

Transam

New Member
I'm about to buy a Barratt home, to be fair, the process thus far has been ok and part ex etc reasonably smooth. However, one major nag for me is the issue of the boundary divide between gardens.

As part of the deal, Barratt fit a 900 high pillar and post fence between each garden. Now, we are in a block of three, all with large dogs. I requested that Barratt fit the fence as per the deal BUT change the posts only (at my cost, Im happy to pay for what Im asking) to 1800 so that we can complete the fence ourselves and our neighbours can have the finish the desire also - note Barrattt wont give me the new neighbours details, nor put us in touch with each other to come to a solution - Data protection and all that. So in short, the height of the fence, cost and materials would be the same to Barratt with the posts only changing and they and the foundation work would be at my cost.

Barratt have said no on various times to this, yet are happy to offer us an upgrade to a fully completed fence at 1800. I wrote to their Scottish Director, who didn't even have the balls to contact me direct or even reply to me - he went through the sales guy. Now it seems that its not Barratts issue, its the NHBC that wouldn't allow it.

Ive trawlled all the NHBC guidlines for builders and buyers and can find nothing on fencing other than contractor site fencing.

Does anyone know if this is bull or if it is indeed a regulation/ stipulation of the NHBC that you cannot have a 900 fence with 1800 posts at time of completion?
 

NewHomeExpert

Well-Known Member
First of all it is absolute rubbish to claim that the NHBC have stipulations of the heights of fences, post heights etc.

What you have asked for seems perfectly resonable to me.

It would appear that Barratt are trying to get you to pay extra for the fence upgrade but also say the NHBC won't allow it!

Stick to your guns.

I would threaten to pull out of the sale unless Barratt give you a FREE 1800mm fence upgrade.
In this market they will cave in and agree.

Good luck.
 

Transam

New Member
Thanks for that. Was pretty sure it was the case. Have contacted them direct just to make doubly sure before I let rip. After I posted this my wife called to say they were making noises about us not signing the misives and our reservation having 'past'.

Their solicitors at fault there however. 'Misplaced' house reports that they are chasing us for that we've already given.

So, my initial statement about everything going smoothly seems to be a thing of the past.
 

Transam

New Member
Update

Got an email back from NHBC's technical folks who said they don't have any guide or regs regarding fencing or boundarys. So bollocks in short.
 

NewHomeExpert

Well-Known Member
That's what I said!

Get the 1800 fence installed by Barratt for free or walk away!

They need you more than you need this hassle!

Make no mistake, this could be a sign, a warning of trouble to ahead.
What if you have problems with your new home, will they get fixed?

It does sound like they may even have another buyer or want to put up the price!

Walk away.
 
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