I recently installed Hardie siding and I'm concerned about it being vulnerable to dirt and moisture from my neighbor's yard, especially with all the rain we've been having. The neighbor wants us to fill in the dug-out area completely, but I need to find a solution that protects my siding without upsetting them. The height from my foundation to where we were standing is about 4 feet. I've attached a picture for reference: [https://imgur.com/a/hhyPKR3](https://imgur.com/a/hhyPKR3). Any ideas?
2 Answers
It sounds like your neighbor's yard could pose a risk to your siding, especially if it’s too close. Hardie siding needs to be at least 6 inches above ground level, according to local codes. It's important to comply with that to avoid issues. You might need to look into installing a retaining wall or a french drain in that area to redirect any water away from your siding. That could satisfy your neighbor too since it would deal with the dirt not pushing against your siding directly.
Before you make any decisions, definitely figure out where your property line is. If the dirt is coming from the neighbor's yard, they might need to take responsibility for it. Sometimes, having a defined barrier, like a concrete wall, can help. It’s not ideal to bury Hardie siding because it can lead to moisture issues, so consider suggesting a solution that works for both of you, maybe a garden or landscaping that keeps the earth at bay. And yes, a surveyor could help clear up any confusion about property lines!