What Is a Good Neighbour Fence and Why Is It So Popular?

If you have ever looked at a standard timber paling fence, you will notice that one side has the rails and framework showing while the other side has the neat, finished face of the palings. The neighbour who gets the rails side often feels like they drew the short straw.

A Good Neighbour fence solves that problem.

How It Works

A Good Neighbour fence is designed so that both sides look the same. The palings are fixed alternately on each side of the rail, so each neighbour gets an even share of the finished face. From either side, the fence looks complete and well-presented.

In a Colorbond version, the panels are designed with a symmetrical profile so there is no "good side" and "bad side." Both sides have a clean, flat finish. This is one of the reasons Colorbond Good Neighbour fences are so popular on boundary lines.

Good Neighbour vs Lapped and Capped

These two designs are sometimes confused, but they are different.

A lapped and capped fence overlaps the palings and adds capping to the top rail. It has a clear front and back. It looks excellent from the front but still has exposed rails on the reverse.

A Good Neighbour fence distributes the palings (or panels) evenly so both sides are equal. Neither neighbour sees the structural framework.

Both styles are a step up from standard paling in terms of appearance. The choice between them comes down to whether equal presentation on both sides matters, and whether you are sharing the cost with your neighbour.

Why It Matters on Boundary Fences

A boundary fence sits on the property line and belongs to both neighbours. Under Queensland's boundary fencing laws, both parties are generally expected to contribute to the cost of a reasonable standard fence.

When both neighbours are paying for the fence, a Good Neighbour design makes the cost-sharing conversation easier. Neither party feels like they are paying for a fence that only looks good from one side.

Material Options

Good Neighbour fences are available in both Colorbond and timber.

Colorbond Good Neighbour panels are BlueScope's standard boundary fence product. They are symmetrical, durable, and available in the full Colorbond colour range. This is the most common option for new boundary fences in Brisbane.

Timber Good Neighbour fences use palings fixed on alternating sides of the rails. They have a slightly different look to the Colorbond version, with the natural texture and warmth of timber on both sides.

Cost

A Good Neighbour fence typically costs a little more than a standard paling fence because of the additional palings or the panel design required. However, if the cost is being split with your neighbour, each party's share is often less than what you would pay for a one-sided fence on your own.

A Fair Solution

The Good Neighbour design exists because it is a fair solution to a common problem. If you are building on a boundary and want both sides to look good, it is the most practical option available.