What is a Fencing Contractor?

A Fencing Contractor is a licensed tradesperson who supplies and installs fencing and gates around your property boundary. They may work with timber, metal, Colorbond, PVC, or custom architectural profiles depending on your plans and council requirements.



Fencing is typically one of the final external tasks, once most building and landscaping activity is complete.

What does a Fencing Contractor do?

Your Fencing Contractor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, they will:

  • Review site boundaries and confirm fence alignment
  • Remove old fencing or posts if required
  • Supply all materials including posts, panels, fixings, and gates
  • Excavate and install fence posts in concrete footings
  • Erect fencing and install gates to match the agreed height, design, and finish


They may also liaise with neighbours or handle dividing fence notices where applicable.

Barry's Toolbox

If you’re sharing a fence with neighbours, get written agreement on the style and cost-sharing before work begins — disputes here are one of the most common build-time headaches.


And check site levels — sloped sites often need stepped or custom-cut panels which can affect your quote.

What to look for in a Fencing Contractor

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Licensing and experience with your chosen fencing type
  • Clear inclusions (e.g. post spacing, concrete footings, gates)
  • Warranty on workmanship and materials
  • Timeline that fits after other site works (e.g. concreting or landscaping)
  • If your property is on a corner block or shared boundary, ask about any council height restrictions or visibility requirements.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Fencing Contractors, you’ll need:

  • Site plan showing boundary lines and access points
  • Photos or sketches of desired fence type
  • Height and material preferences (if known)
  • Clarification of any old fencing to be removed
  • Target date for install (usually at end of build)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I install fencing before the build is finished?

    It’s possible, but not ideal. Heavy machinery, concrete trucks, and landscaping may damage new fencing — it’s best done last.



  • Do I need to notify my neighbours?

    Yes — for shared fences, a formal notice and agreement is usually required under the Dividing Fences Act in your state.

  • Does fencing require council approval?

    Usually not — unless your fence exceeds height limits, is on a corner block, or includes a retaining wall. Always check your local rules.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.