The 5-minute garden check that could save you hundreds

Experts say failing to check fences after winter is one of the most common mistakes households make and one that can quickly become expensive.

Damage caused by storms, strong winds and heavy rain can go unnoticed, but even small issues can spiral if left untreated.

As gardens start to dry out in spring, hidden winter damage becomes easier to spot.

But many people miss the warning signs until it is too late.

Problems like loose panels or leaning posts can quickly worsen, turning a small fix into a much bigger job, according to property experts.

Without a fence to mark the boundary, disputes can also become more likely.

Typical repairs can cost as little as £80, but more serious damage can run into the hundreds, especially if entire sections need replacing.

Risk of neighbour disputes

Poorly maintained fences are also one of the most common triggers for neighbour disputes in the UK.

Data from the Ministry of Justice shows property and boundary disagreements remain a frequent source of complaints and legal cases.

If a fence collapses and damages a neighbouring garden, homeowners could even end up footing the bill.

Joe Lytwyn, consumer finance expert at thimbl.com , says small issues are often ignored until they become costly.

“Winter weather can weaken fences without people noticing, especially after heavy rain or strong winds,” he explains.

“A loose panel or damaged post might seem minor, but if you ignore it, the problem can escalate and lead to a much bigger repair bill.”

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The 5-minute check that could save you money

Experts recommend a quick inspection before starting any spring garden work.

Look out for:

• Loose or leaning fence panels
• Cracked or rotting posts
• Gaps between panels
• Signs of movement after storms
• Damage at ground level

Fixing problems early is usually far cheaper than replacing an entire fence later.

A quick five-minute check now could prevent a much bigger bill later.

With repair costs rising and disputes becoming more common, experts say this is one small job homeowners should not ignore.

Do you know to tell which boundaries on your property are yours to maintain? Tell us in the comments below