A fence on a shared property line affects two households, and in older neighborhoods around Wilmington the line is often not where the old fence stood. Settling these questions before the posts go in is far easier than afterward.
Find the real property line
Start with your plat or a survey. Many lots have iron pins at the corners. If the pins are missing or the plat is unclear, a licensed surveyor can mark them. We work from those marks, not from the old fence or a guess. Many people build a few inches inside their own line to avoid any question about whose fence it is.
Talk to the neighbor first
A conversation before the estimate goes a long way. Neighbors may want to share the cost, have preferences about height or style, or need to know when the crew will be there. If you plan to remove an old fence that might be theirs or shared, agree on that in writing.
Which side faces out?
Custom, and many HOA rules, put the finished face toward the neighbor or the street. If that is a sore point, a shadow box fence looks the same from both sides.
Sharing the cost
When neighbors share a fence, write down who pays what, who owns it, and who maintains it. We can provide one estimate both households can review.
Access during the build
Installing a line fence sometimes requires stepping onto the neighbor's side to set posts and fasten boards. Ask for permission in advance; it is courteous and avoids trouble.