Neighbor Suing Me For Shared Fence Retroactively.

Hey everyone,

I've never been in any type of legal situation before and I'm driving myself crazy. Can anyone let me know how many chances are looking?

Location: Lake Jackson, Texas

In July of 2024, Hurricane Beryl damaged the fence between our properties. I repaired the fence at my own expense by the end of that month, restoring it to a standing and functional condition.

In February of 2025, approximately seven months later, the plaintiffs contacted me asking if I would consider splitting the cost of a new fence and sending me a quote. I responded that they were free to send a quote, but that I was satisfied with the existing fence. There was no agreement or consent to replace it.

In their email, the plaintiffs stated they would proceed on their own. In March, they unilaterally replaced the fence. Prior to that replacement, I received no HOA violation or notice of non-compliance regarding the shared fence.

March 19th, after the fence was replaced, the plaintiffs requested payment. During an in-person conversation, I again stated that I had not agreed to replace the fence. At the end of the conversation though, I made a goodwill offer with no amount specified and that I would get back with them. When I made the offer later it was rejected, and they wanted the full original requested amount.

Weeks later, I received a demand letter which for the first time referenced an HOA notice that only the plaintiffs recieved. That notice does not apply to the shared fence.

The new fence had introduced new liabilities such as it exceeding the poa height guideline and now it doesn't match the rest of my fence.

Any thoughts on how I'll fair?I have a photo of the damage caused by Beryl. My repair photo from 5 months after I fixed it (showing it standing). My poa violation history which does no notices regarding the shared fence. I have text messages of me being satisfied with the repaired fence when asked my thoughts. The email in such they stated they would understand my decision but will proceed on their own. I have text messages regarding my offer and them rejecting and wanting more.

Thanks for any help or insight.