This is the most common job we do. On a sloping Perth block the retaining wall and the boundary fence are really one problem: the wall height changes where the fence sits, and the fence posts have to be set relative to the finished wall. Build them as two separate jobs with two separate trades and you end up with gaps under the fence, a step that looks wrong, and two people blaming each other.
We build the wall and the fence in one go, with one crew and one fixed price.
How we put the two together
- Levels first. At the measure we work out the finished wall height along the whole boundary and how the fence will step with it.
- Wall built to suit the fence. Footings, drainage and backfill compacted in layers, with the top of the wall set dead level where the fence needs it.
- Posts set to the finished wall. The fence posts go in relative to the wall, so the sheets sit tight to the top with no gap underneath.
- Finished as one. Lattice or slat topping if you want it, gates where you need them, and the site cleaned up once.
Which wall goes under a fence?
Most boundary walls carrying Colorbond are concrete sleeper or panel-and-post with galvanised steel posts, because they're strong for their footprint and finish straight. Reconstituted limestone also works well when the fence needs to sit perfectly level. Natural limestone is more of a garden wall. We'll recommend one at the measure.
Sharing the cost with your neighbour
A boundary fence is often split with the neighbour. Getting one combined quote for the wall and the fence makes that conversation a lot easier, because everyone can see exactly what's included and what each part costs.
Approvals
Walls on or near a boundary are where councils pay the most attention. In the City of Joondalup, for example, a wall more than 0.5 m high that isn't on the boundary may need a 1.6 m privacy screen. A wall that crosses the boundary needs a form BA20 with the building permit application and an agreement between the neighbours. We check the rules with your council before we book you in. More in our council approval guide.
What's in the price
Wall, drainage, fence, any gates, excavation, removal of the old wall and fence, spoil removal and clean-up, in one written quote with a start date.
Questions
Why not get the fencer and the wall builder separately?
Because the wall height decides where the fence goes. Separate trades on separate visits is how gaps under fences happen. One crew avoids that.
Can you add lattice or slat on top?
Yes. Colorbond with lattice or slat topping is a common finish on retaining jobs.
Do you remove the old fence too?
Yes. Removal of the old wall and fence and taking the rubbish away are part of the quote.
Get a free quote
Leave your name, phone and email and we'll call you back to book a free on-site measure. You'll get one fixed price in writing.
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