Is my existing timber fence post structurally fine or should it be changed?
Anonymous user 19/03/2026 - 10.23 AM
Hi,
I have a timber fence post fixed alongside my house wall, fully on my side of the boundary. The original post position has been there for 10–15+ years. About 5.5 years ago we replaced the fence panels and simply extended the existing timber post height by joining timber on top — no new holes or foundations were dug.
The post is solid and shows no movement or damage.
A neighbour is asking us to replace it with a concrete post, but other contractors have said this would require digging 600–750mm near the house footings and could risk disturbing the foundations, so they would not recommend it.
From a fencing/building perspective:
• Does the current setup sound safe/standard?
• Would installing a concrete post next to the house create unnecessary foundation risk?
• Would you leave it as is if it’s stable?
Just looking for trade opinions for documentation. Thanks.
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
Hi Is Jaro from Groundwork Solutions Grays. To replace wooden post for concrete ones will more about price and no about damage to foundation because you not going digging into foundations but next to them. As much you want 6ft fence is required to digging 600 down with 3ft is 450 down. As much those post are ok I personally won't change them until they are really gone.
he existing timber fence post beside the house wall appears stable and has been in place for many years without movement. The height extension carried out approximately 5.5 years ago is a common method and does not affect the original footing.
Replacing the post with a concrete post would require excavation of around 600–750 mm directly adjacent to the house wall, which could risk disturbing shallow foundations.
In the absence of any movement, rot, or structural failure, the current post would generally be considered serviceable and does not require replacement.
Please let us know if you require any further information. We are always happy to help.
Britcivils
Best solution is that a new post or 4x2 is bolted and if required a galvanised Durapost u channel can be installed
So no need to dig near foundations not the best idea and not needed
Giles
SilverTree Landscapes
Guild of Master Craftsmen
From a building/fencing perspective:
• Current setup: Your timber post sounds safe and standard — it’s been solid for 10–15 years and shows no movement.
• Concrete post next to the house: Installing one would require deep digging close to the footings, which could risk disturbing the foundations.
• Recommendation: If the post is stable and doing its job, it’s safer to leave it as is rather than risk unnecessary foundation issues.
Yes by all means replace with concrete post . digging by the foundations will not compromise them you will have them spaced out not a continuous trench . You won't be undermining the footings be careful of services or drainage that may alongside the house.
