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Posted 05 September 2023
Category: Strata
Dividing fences and retaining walls
The Dividing Fences Act 1991 (Act) now applies to retaining walls which provide support for a fence separating the land of adjoining owners, whether on the common boundary of adjoining land or on a line other than the common boundary.
Pursuant to section 3(c) of the Act, āfenceā means a structure, ditch or embankment, or a hedge or similar vegetative barrier, enclosing or bounding land, whether or not continuous or extending along the whole of the boundary separating the land of adjoining owners, and includes:
As outlined above, only the parts of the retaining wall directly supporting the dividing fence (i.e. fence posts going into the retaining wall) is considered to be a āfenceā as defined under the Act and can be included in the equal sharing of cost to carry out fencing work in respect of a dividing fence.
The case of Margy L Walsh v R Tomsic [2014] NSWCATCD 118 found that in circumstances where work is necessary to repair a retaining wall for its principal purpose as a retaining wall, and not as part of a dividing fence (i.e. work necessary for the immediate support of a fence), contribution from the adjoining owners will not be available.
The following principles were reiterated in Inacio v Luckose [2020] NSWCATAP 149 at [67]:
āThe fact that a retaining wallĀ providesĀ supportĀ forĀ a dividing fence, in the sense that the fence will fall over if the wall is removed, is not sufficient to establish that the wall is a foundation or support for the fence.Ā It must be a common feature of retaining walls that whatever is constructed above the wall is likely to collapse if the wall is removed. It would not be consistent with the intention of the Act that any retaining wall constructed on or near theĀ boundary between adjacent properties will be a dividing fence or part of a dividing fence. It is necessary that the wall be constructed as a foundation or support forĀ a dividingĀ fence, that is, for the purpose of providing a foundation or support for the fence.ā
The main question to answer is whether a structure is a dividing fence andĀ whether a retaining wall is a foundation or support for a dividing fence and this determination must have regard to the purpose for which theĀ structure orĀ wall has been constructed.
Other common issues with fences
Bannermans team of experts can help with all your boundary and fencing issues. A few examples below include:
Ā Need further advice for the complex issues?
We understand that this area is complex and factually driven so feel free to contact us directly at enquiries@bannermans.com.au or on 02 9929 0226 to obtain further advice or representation regarding:
***The information contained in this article is general information only and not legal advice. The currency, accuracy and completeness of this article (and its contents) should be checked by obtaining independent legal advice before you take any action or otherwise rely upon its contents in any way.