Things to know
Confirm boundary ownership before quoting, not after posts are in the ground. Which side owns a fence isn't always obvious from a property deed. Doing work on a neighbour's side of a disputed boundary is one of the most common fencing disputes. A line in the notes stating the customer has confirmed ownership protects you if it's ever questioned.
Ground conditions can double the time a post takes to go in, and you can't always see this until you start digging. Rock, tree roots, or heavy clay near a mature garden are common enough to justify a stated allowance, or a "subject to ground conditions on the day" note. That beats a fixed price that assumes the easiest possible dig.
Post fixing method, whether concreted-in, postcrete, or a specialist post-fix system, affects both price and how long before the fence can safely take weight or wind load. State which method you're using and the cure time before the fence is fully load-bearing, so a customer doesn't lean on a gate the day after installation and blame a fault.
Weather and ground-frozen conditions genuinely stop fencing work, unlike many indoor trades. A brief note that installation dates are weather-dependent, particularly for concrete-set posts in winter, sets expectations without making the quote look uncommitted.
Typical fencer line items and UK prices
Indicative ranges, excluding VAT. Rates vary by region (London and the South East run higher) and by job size.
| Item | Unit | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Closeboard fence (1.8m), supply + install | per linear metre | £70–£120 |
| Panel fence with concrete posts + gravel boards | per panel (1.83m) | £110–£180 |
| Replace single fence panel | per panel | £70–£130 |
| Remove + dispose of old fencing | per linear metre | £8–£20 |
| Timber side gate, supply + hang | per gate | £250–£500 |
| Post-hole concrete / Postcrete | per post | £8–£15 |
| Trellis topper | per panel | £25–£50 |
Common fencer jobs and how to price them
- Full boundary replacement
- Per linear metre or panel with posts, gravel boards and removal itemised.
- Storm repairs
- Per panel or post, plus call-out; insurance customers often need an itemised invoice.
- Gates
- Per gate including hinges, latch and any extra post.
- Agricultural / post-and-rail
- Per metre by rail count and post spacing.
Regulations and certificates to reference
- Permitted development height limits (England) — fences, walls and gates can go up to 2m without planning permission, or 1m next to a highway used by vehicles. Listed properties and some estates have tighter rules.
- Boundary ownership — the customer must confirm the line; title plans are general, so if in doubt, agree with the neighbour in writing. Fencing on the wrong side is a common dispute.
- Underground services — check for cables and pipes before digging post holes. Use a cable avoidance tool on longer runs.
Payment terms fencers commonly use
- Deposit for materials (25–40%), balance on completion.
- Insurance repairs: invoice the customer with photos; they claim from their insurer.
Read more: Invoice payment terms explained · Payment methods to offer clients
VAT and CIS for fencers
VAT
Standard-rated at 20% once registered.
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)
Erecting fencing for a builder or developer is within CIS — HMRC treats fencing as a traditional part of a building's surroundings, not a security system.
Homeowners never deduct CIS, so domestic fencing jobs are unaffected.
General guidance, not tax advice — check your position with HMRC or an accountant.
Read more: Do I need to charge VAT on my invoices? · What must an invoice include? (UK legal requirements)
What this template includes
- Posts and fixing method priced separately from panels
- Ground condition allowance noted (rock, roots, clay)
- Boundary ownership confirmed in the notes
- Old fence removal and disposal
- PDF download or shareable tracked link
Full guide
How to Start a Fencing Business as a Sole Trader
Frequently asked questions
Under permitted development in England, up to 2m, or 1m next to a road used by vehicles. Higher fences need planning permission.
The customer. Title plans show general boundaries only, so where there is doubt, the customer should agree the line with the neighbour before you start.
Concrete posts last longer and suit panels with gravel boards. Timber posts suit closeboard and look more traditional. State which you are quoting and the expected lifespan.
Yes, as its own line. Disposal of treated timber has a real cost, and customers comparing quotes often miss whether it is included.
Confirm this with the customer before work starts and note it on the quote — boundary ownership disputes are one of the most common fencing complaints, and it's not always obvious from a deed alone.
Ground conditions like rock, roots, or heavy clay can significantly slow post installation. A stated allowance or "subject to ground conditions" note protects both sides from a fixed price based on best-case digging.
Concreted-in posts typically need 48 hours minimum before bearing load. State the cure time on the quote so a gate isn't used too early and blamed on a fault.
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