Do not let a disagreement about property become permission to ignore another person’s humanity.

Disputes over things escalate quickly, because a boundary line or a damaged item feels like a verdict on whether you are taken seriously. The other side then stops being a person with a life and becomes an opponent, and behaviour follows. The object is usually worth less than the peace. The relationship keeps costing after the matter is settled either way.

If you are in one of these, separate the practical question from the feeling of being disrespected. Deal with the first plainly and say the second out loud if you can. Keep greeting them, whatever happens with the fence.