How much does it cost to repair a fence? [March 2026]

Here's a breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for fence repair in London and outside of London.

It's common for gardeners to charge per hour for fence repair, but you may find some will charge per meter or even a fixed price for the job.

What other factors affect the cost of fence repair?

There are several factors that can influence the total price of repairing a garden fence. The type of fencing, the extent of the damage, when you book the job and who carries out the work can all affect the final cost.
 

1. The material your fence is made from

The material your fence is made from can actually play a big role in determining the repair cost. Some fencing materials are easier and quicker to work with, while others require specialist tools or more labour.

Standard timber fence panels are usually the cheapest to repair because they are widely available and relatively easy to replace. Closeboard fencing may require individual boards or rails to be replaced rather than a single panel, which takes more time. Composite fencing can also be more expensive to repair due to the higher cost of replacement panels. Metal or decorative fencing may require specialist tools or welding, which can increase labour costs.
 

2. Whether your fence post needs replacing
 

The condition of your fence posts can often affect the overall repair cost because they form the structural foundation of the fence. When a post becomes damaged or rotten, the repair process is more involved than simply replacing a panel.

In many cases, the old post needs to be dug out along with its concrete footing before a new post can be installed and secured in fresh concrete. This process takes significantly longer than most other fence repairs, which is why replacing fence posts tends to be one of the more expensive repairs.
 

3. Accessibility
 

The location of the fence can also affect the cost of repairs. If the damaged section is difficult to access - for example, behind sheds, garden structures, or dense planting - the job may take longer to complete.

Restricted access can make it harder for tradespeople to bring in tools and replacement materials, and they may need additional time to safely reach and repair the fence.
 

4. Waste removal

Repairing a fence often generates waste such as broken panels, old posts, and damaged fixings. Some tradespeople will include the removal and disposal of this waste in their quote, while others may charge an additional fee (usually £5 - £10 per bag)

If the repair involves replacing multiple panels or posts, a larger amount of waste may be produced. In these cases, you may need to arrange a professional waste removal service to dispose of the materials safely.
 

5. When you book

The time of year you book your fence repair can also affect the price. Gardeners and fencing specialists are typically busiest during the spring and summer months, when more homeowners are carrying out garden improvements.

Because demand is higher during these seasons, labour rates can sometimes be slightly higher and availability may be more limited. Booking during quieter periods, such as autumn or winter, may give you more flexibility with scheduling and occasionally lower prices.

6. Who you book with
 

Who you book with will also influence the price you'll end up paying for a gardener to fix your fence. Independent gardeners or small local tradespeople may charge lower hourly rates, as they often have fewer overheads.

Larger companies or well-established services may charge more, but they often provide additional benefits such as customer support teams, vetted professionals, insurance coverage and the ability to quickly arrange replacement tradespeople if needed.
 

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When is it more cost-efficient to replace instead of repairing a fence?

Sometimes fence damage is significant enough that it’s worth considering whether you should repair the existing fence or replace it entirely. The right option usually depends on the age of the fence, the extent of the damage, and the overall condition of the structure.

In many cases, repairing a fence is the most cost-effective solution, especially if the damage is limited to a small area. However, if multiple sections of the fence are failing or the structure is reaching the end of its lifespan, replacing the fence may provide better long-term value.

Repairs are usually the best option if:

• Only one or two panels are damaged
• Posts are still structurally sound
• The rest of the fence is in good condition

Replacement may be more cost-effective if:

• Several posts are rotten or broken
• Large sections are leaning or unstable
• The fence is more than 10–15 years old
• Storm damage has affected multiple panels

A professional gardener will often recommend the most economical option after inspecting your fence.
 

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Can I repair a fence myself?
 

If you're pretty handy, simple fence repairs can often be done as a DIY job. For example, replacing a panel or tightening brackets.

However, some fence repairs can be much more challenging, particularly when posts need replacing (this usually involves digging out concrete foundations and ensuring the new post is level and secure!)

For this reason, it’s often best to hire a gardener. An experienced gardener will have the right tools and knowledge to ensure your fence is properly repaired and securely installed, helping to prevent further damage (and potentially more costly repairs) in the future.
 

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Are there any rules or regulations I need to follow when fixing a fence?
 

Fence repairs usually do not require planning permission if you are simply fixing an existing fence. ^[1]

However, there are some general guidelines (which are more relevant if you're installing a new fence but worth noting):

• Garden fences typically cannot exceed 2 metres in height without planning permission ^[2]
• Fences facing a road usually have a 1 metre height limit ^[2]
• Boundary fences may require agreement with neighbours, depending on ownership
   

If you're unsure who owns the fence, check your property deeds or boundary agreements before carrying out major repairs.
 

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Where can I get a quote for fence repairs?

Finding a gardener to repair your fence is usually easier than you might think. A good place to start is by asking family, friends or neighbours if they’ve recently had any garden work done.

You can also check local community groups on social media, where people often share recommendations, reviews and photos of recent jobs. Local garden centres can be another useful option - staff are often familiar with reputable gardeners in the area and may be able to point you in the right direction.

Or if you'd like to take the hassle out of searching for a tried and tested gardener, you can book through a tradesperson service such as Housekeep. Just tell us about your fence, and we'll match you with a brilliant gardener who can repair your fence at a date and time that suits you. 

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Sources

1. Waltham Forest Council: Planning permission FAQs
2. LawHive: What Is The Maximum Fence Height Without Planning Permission?
    

Written by Georgina Shepherd & Henry Paterson

Georgina is one Housekeep's home services experts. She's interviewed thousands of the UK's best cleaners and tradespeople - so whether you need advice on a stubborn stain, or you're looking for tips to find the perfect plumber, Georgina's got you covered.

With years of experience in the industry, Henry has delivered talks at industry events including the Ideal Home Show and regularly features as an industry expert for publications including the Sun, Mail Online, Martha Stewart.