Article summary
What information to provide and what to look for to get a fair, accurate fencing quote.
- Category:
- cost
- Read time:
- 3 min
- Published:
- 25 November 2024
- Written by:
- My Homes Fencing Expert
Quick answer: the most accurate quotes come from an on-site visit, so book that rather than relying on a phone estimate. To help, have a few things ready — roughly how many metres, the height and style you want, how many gates, whether an old fence needs removing, and any access or slope challenges. Then make sure the quote you get back is written and itemised so you can compare fairly.
A vague quote leads to surprises; a good one is clear from the start. Here's how to get an accurate fencing quote and what a fair one looks like.
Why an On-Site Visit Beats a Phone Estimate
Fencing prices hinge on things you can't see down a phone line — ground conditions, slope, access, the state of any existing fence, and exact measurements. That's why a number quoted sight-unseen is a guess that often changes once work starts. A proper on-site visit lets the builder measure accurately, spot the factors that add cost, and give you a price you can rely on.
It's also your chance to talk through options and see whether the builder actually knows their stuff. A quick, no-obligation site visit is standard from good fencing companies, so there's no reason to settle for a rough phone figure on a job this size.
What to Have Ready
You'll get a faster, sharper quote if you can outline what you want: the approximate length (a rough measure of the boundary is fine), the height and style you're after, how many gates and where, and whether you're replacing an existing fence that needs removing. Mentioning access constraints (a narrow side path, no truck access) and any slope up front helps too, since these affect the price.
If it's a shared boundary, it's also worth flagging — talking to your neighbour early about cost-sharing under the Fencing Act 1978 can save time later. You don't need exact figures; a clear picture of the job is enough for the builder to work from on site.
What a Good Quote Looks Like
An accurate quote comes back written and itemised — not a single lump-sum number. Look for it to state the material and timber treatment grade (H4 for in-ground posts), post spacing and depth, the price per lineal metre, gates and hardware, whether old-fence removal, disposal and GST are included, and the workmanship warranty. That detail is what lets you compare two quotes on equal terms.
Be wary of a quote that's far cheaper than the others — in fencing that usually signals a lower spec (shallower posts, wider spacing, lesser timber) rather than a bargain. We provide free, written, itemised quotes across Auckland after a site visit, so you know exactly what you're paying for and why.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book an on-site visit rather than relying on a phone estimate — prices depend on measurements, ground conditions, slope and access that can't be judged remotely. Have the rough length, height, style, gate count and any access or removal needs ready to help the builder quote accurately.
The approximate boundary length, the height and style you want, how many gates and where, whether an old fence needs removing, and any access or slope challenges. For a shared boundary, flag it so cost-sharing under the Fencing Act can be discussed early.
A written, itemised quote stating the material and timber treatment grade, post spacing and depth, price per lineal metre, gates and hardware, whether removal/disposal and GST are included, and the workmanship warranty. That detail lets you compare quotes fairly.
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