My Homeowners Association Forbids Fences, But My DIY Solution Protects My Patio From My Neighbors
A homeowner went viral for the homemade fence she installed to get around her homeowners association’s strict rules.
Shaye Miko (@shannonmik0) shared the at-home solution in a TikTok video, which has since been viewed more than 4.9 million times.
4
4
In a follow-up segment, she describes how she built the temporary privacy screen that covers her patio and inflatable pool.
Miko told The US Sun she had to get creative because her homeowners association doesn’t allow permanent fences.
“I am a condo owner and was unable to install permanent fencing due to our homeowners association rules. Our back patios have very limited privacy, so I looked for a temporary privacy solution that would meet our needs,” she explained.
“I needed a fence that could be placed on the concrete patio, but I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for. So I came up with this DIY project and it’s perfect!”
The remodel cost her about $290, which she spent on supplies at Lowe’s and Menards.
She purchased six outdoor privacy screens for $30 each, two cedar planks for $15, 25 pavers for $1.24, and 10 corner brackets for $4.71.
Other materials needed included washers and wood screws, which she already had on hand.
“The whole point of my setup here was to keep everything temporary. If you live in an apartment and have an HOA, believe me, you understand,” she said.
“These are temporary privacy screens from Lowe’s; they are sold in individual packages.”
She explained that the fence did not cause any problems and was easy to dismantle.
“It’s working great so far! I’ve had it for almost a month now and I love it,” she told The US Sun.
“When fall comes, I can immediately store it until next year, because it is very easy to take apart.”
The TikTokker said she appreciated the overwhelming support from her fans.
“The response on TikTok has been amazing!” she said.
“I made a short video showing my patio with the temporary fence. Everyone wanted to know where it came from and how I made it. Then I made the DIY video showing the process.”
4
4
Viewers agreed with her affordable DIY project, with fans calling the idea “brilliant.”
“I work for a Homeowners Association and I say GO FOR IT!” wrote one commenter.
“I like knowing the rules so that when I break them I can break them without any room for discussion. Good job!” said another.
“YESSS I will follow your “rules” in my own way lol,” Miko replied.
A third called the hack “absolute genius,” saying: “I’m going to steal this idea.”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you. I live in a homeowners association too and I used that metal puppy play fence, but this looks really nice! I’m going to steal it!” someone else added.
