Cost of Garden Fencing in the UK (2025)
Garden fencing costs £80–£160 per panel installed. A typical garden fence replacement (15m) costs £1,200–£2,500 including posts, panels, and labour.
Types of garden fencing
Closeboard (or featherboard) fencing is the most durable timber option — individual vertical boards nailed to horizontal rails and posts, creating a solid fence that resists wind better than panel fencing. Panel fencing uses pre-made panels slotted between posts — cheaper and quicker to install but more vulnerable to wind damage. Composite fencing is a premium option made from wood fibre and plastic — very durable, low maintenance, and available in various styles.
Fence posts: concrete vs timber
Concrete posts outlast timber by decades, never rot, and require no maintenance — they cost slightly more upfront but represent better long-term value. Treated timber posts in concrete footings last 15–25 years. Metal post spikes avoid digging but are only suitable for soft ground and lighter fences. For a replacement fence, always use concrete posts if budget allows.
Cost Breakdown
All prices are indicative UK averages for 2025. Actual costs vary by location, specification, and contractor. London and South East rates are typically 20–35% higher.
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Closeboard panel fence (per panel) | £80 | £160 |
| Full garden fence (15m, closeboard) | £1,200 | £2,200 |
| Featherboard fence (per panel) | £100 | £180 |
| Composite fencing (per panel) | £150 | £300 |
| Timber gate (supply & fit) | £300 | £700 |
| Post replacement (per post) | £60 | £100 |
What Affects the Cost?
- ✓Length of fence and number of panels
- ✓Type of fencing chosen
- ✓Post type — concrete vs timber
- ✓Ground conditions — rocky ground is harder to dig
- ✓Removal and disposal of existing fence
- ✓Access — narrow side passages add time
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Post a Job — It's FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Whose fence is it between neighbours?
Boundary responsibility is shown on title deeds — look for a T mark. If the T is on your side, it is usually your responsibility. If there is no T mark, responsibility may be shared. Your contractor can advise on local convention.
Do I need planning permission for a garden fence?
Fences up to 2m high in rear gardens generally do not need planning permission. Fences adjacent to a highway (including the front garden boundary) are limited to 1m. Conservation areas and listed buildings may have additional restrictions.
How long does fence installation take?
A typical garden fence replacement takes 1–2 days. Concrete posts need to cure for 24 hours before panels are fitted. Automated gates with electrical work take 2–3 days.
How do I stop a timber fence from rotting?
Use pressure-treated timber, concrete posts, and gravel boards (horizontal boards at the base that protect panel bottoms from ground moisture). Apply a timber preservative every 2–3 years. Ensure good airflow on both sides of the fence.