Hiring a fencing contractor: what to ask, what to avoid
Two fencing quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one. Any prices below are modelled estimates, not measured local prices.
The one that catches most people out
Not checking boundary lines
Build on the wrong side and you may have to remove it. Get a surveyor if boundary is unclear.
Questions to ask a fencing contractor
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include old fence removal, or is that extra?
If it's extra, expect around $15–$30.
- 2
Is retaining walls part of the price, or charged separately?
- 3
Will I be charged extra for sloping ground premium?
If it's extra, expect around $20–$40.
- 4
Is council permits included, or an add-on?
If it's extra, expect around $200–$500.
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
Confirm whether the supplier is GST-registered and whether GST is included. Check the ATO for registration rules.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Splitting costs with neighbour
Under the Dividing Fences Act, costs are usually shared. Talk to your neighbour before getting quotes.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓Posts and rails
- ✓Panels/palings
- ✓Basic gate
- ✓Concrete footings
Usually charged extra
- +Old fence removal · $15–$30
- +Retaining walls
- +Sloping ground premium · $20–$40
- +Council permits · $200–$500
- +Pool compliance certification
What pushes the price up: length and height, material (colorbond vs timber vs glass), slope/uneven ground, old fence removal, retaining required, access for machinery.
Fencing questions, answered
Who pays for a dividing fence?+
Do I need council approval?+
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