How much does fence installation cost?

Fence installation cost full guide

Whether you need a replacement for an old fence or are looking for some privacy, here is a full guide on fence installation costs. Including everything from the cost of fencing per metre, to the different fencing materials you should know about.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

1. Average fence installation costs
2. Fence installation costs per metre
3. Cost of hiring a professional fence installer
4. Beware of these additional fence installation costs
5. How to plan a smooth fence installation
6. Find verified fence installers near you on MyBuilder
7. FAQ: Common questions about fence installation costs

Average fence installation costs per metre

Whether your fences are looking a little run down, or a storm has blown them apart, knowing how much fencing costs is important in the UK for any garden owner.

The average cost of garden fence installation in the UK ranges from £40 to £100 per metre, including materials and labour, though it can reach £110-£200 per metre for premium styles like composite or metal.

Take a look at these average fence installation costs:

Cost Factor	Details
Material Type	Ranges from £40-£200/m
Labour	Ranges from £25-£50/m
Site Conditions	Can incur extra costs
Location	20-30% more expensive in cities

If you’re wondering about how much your fence will cost, depending on the size of your garden and where you live, it’s important to talk to a fence installer near you. If you want to explore some budget-friendly ideas, see our tips for low cost privacy fencing.

Fence installation costs per metre

To help budget for the cost of your new fence per metre, it’s important to understand how different materials compare. There’s different options from traditional wooden fences, to strong wrought iron fences.

Take a look at this table with the different material types and their costs:

Material Type	Average Cost per Metre
Wooden panels	£25 – £50
Vinyl/PVC	£35 – £70
Wrought iron	£90 – £150
Chain link	£20 – £40
Closeboard	£50 – £90
Concrete panels	£70 – £120

For a more detailed look at your options, visit our cost guides on wrought iron fences, chain link fencing and electric fencing installation.

If you’re not feeling sure about what material you should choose for your fencing installation, you can get advice from a professional.

It only takes a couple of minutes to post your job on MyBuilder today, and get in touch with verified fence installers near you. You can also read their customer reviews, view their profiles and see images of their previous fence installations.

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Cost of hiring a professional fence installer

Fencing labour costs can vary based on your project's size, ground type, and materials, UK rates are usually £15 to £30 per metre.

The cost of fence installation includes several essential activities:

• Site preparation and clearance
• Post digging and setting
• Fence panel or material attachment
• Levelling and finishing

Thinking about the fence installation cost can be daunting, but hiring a professional is the best way to skip the hassle. Why wait? Post your job on MyBuilder today and find a verified local fencer near you to get the job done.

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Beware of these additional fence installation costs

Alongside material and labour, some additional items can impact how much your new fence costs.

These are often not included in basic fencing quotes but are worth factoring into your budget before you start!

Take a look at the list below:

• Old fence removal: Additional charges may apply depending on size and disposal.
• Site clearance: Overgrown gardens or debris increase prep time.
• Gate installation: Costs vary based on size and style.
• Painting or staining: Required for some wood fences and adds to ongoing maintenance. Not sure about using the same paint for different surfaces? Read our guide on whether you can use fence paint on decking.
• Waste removal: Post-installation clean-up may incur extra fees. If privacy or sound control is also a concern, you might be interested in our soundproof fence cost guide.

To get the best price for your fence installation job, just post your job on MyBuilder today. Then, you can talk to different fencers in your area, request quotes and compare their costs. Finding the right fit for your budget, without the hassle.

How to plan a smooth fence installation

Planning a new fence is an exciting step to improve your garden, but a bit of preparation goes a long way to keeping costs down and making sure everything turns out just right.

Here’s a handy checklist to help guide you through the key things to think about before booking an installer:

• Check site conditions and boundaries: Assess terrain, clear obstructions, and mark property lines clearly to avoid disputes or delays.​
• Review permissions and regulations: Confirm if planning permission is needed (e.g., fences over 2m high often require it); check height limits and local rules.​
• Pick suitable materials for weather: Choose options like vinyl or concrete for wet/uneven ground.
• Plan timing and notify your neighbours: Schedule for dry months to cut labour time; inform neighbours if you have shared boundaries.

Taking these steps ensures a smooth fence installation that fits your garden and budget. If your plans include more, check out the guide on building a garden room to make your outdoor space truly special.

Find verified fence installers near you on MyBuilder

If you’re looking for a fence installer in your area, just post your job on MyBuilder today. Every tradesperson or company on our directory undergoes ID checks and relevant skills assessments so you can hire with more confidence than before.

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FAQ: Common questions about fence installation costs

What are the benefits of investing in a more expensive fence?

Higher-priced fencing options often provide greater durability, security and visual appeal. Materials such as wrought iron or composite fencing typically last longer and need less maintenance, which can reduce long-term costs. They also offer better resistance to weather and pests and may add more value to your property compared to basic timber options.

What are some cost-effective fencing materials available in the UK market?

Affordable fencing choices in the UK include pressure-treated wood, which offers reasonable durability for its price and chain-link fencing, which is low-cost and easy to maintain. Vinyl picket fencing is also a budget-friendly option requiring minimal upkeep. Recycled or composite materials are becoming more popular for their cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

How long does a typical fence last?

Wooden fences last 10-20 years with regular maintenance like cleaning off dirt/mildew and reapplying protective stains every few years. Premium woods such as cedar or pressure-treated options reach the upper end if kept dry and repaired promptly. Composites or metal endure 25-50+ years with minimal effort, slashing replacement costs long-term

What's the best fence for privacy?

Adding toppers to solid fences is an easy way to increase privacy and height without needing planning permission, as long as the total height stays within the UK legal limit of 2 metres. This allows for more seclusion while keeping your fence compliant with local regulations.