Fencing and gates in Smethwick

What should you know before starting in Smethwick?

Before replacing a boundary fence in Smethwick, confirm who owns it — your deeds often show this — and agree the line with your neighbour. Planning permission from Sandwell Council is only needed above 2 m, or above 1 m beside a road.

Adding trellis on top? Treat it as part of the fence height when checking the limits.
Concrete posts and gravel boards don't rot at ground level.
Fences next to a road or the footpath beside it are limited to 1 m without planning permission.

Postcode district: B66
Planning and building control: Sandwell Council
From our West Bromwich base: 2 miles

Which options suit homes in Smethwick?

Concrete posts and gravel boards

Slotted concrete posts hold panels in place without rotting, and concrete gravel boards along the bottom keep timber clear of wet soil. Concrete posts are heavier to install and more noticeable than timber. Many people put them in when replacing panel fences, because new panels can then be slotted in later without disturbing the posts.

Closeboard fencing

Vertical featheredge boards nailed to horizontal rails fixed between posts, built in place along the boundary. Closeboard is stronger than panels, copes better with wind and can follow sloping ground more neatly. Damaged boards can be replaced one at a time. It costs more and takes longer to build, but it lasts longer in most gardens.

Guide prices for Smethwick

Guide prices start at £60 and run to £230 per linear metre. 1.8 m closeboard fence with concrete posts and gravel boards, old fence removed: around £95–£135 per linear metre.

Guide prices for fencing and gates
Option	Guide price	Good to know
Panel fencing with concrete posts	£60 – £95 per linear metre	1.8 m panels, quick to fit
Closeboard with concrete posts	£90 – £135 per linear metre	Stronger, better in exposed gardens
Slatted or composite fencing	£140 – £230 per linear metre	Contemporary look, less upkeep

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. Your fixed price for the agreed specification follows a free survey at your Smethwick address.

Questions about fencing and gates in Smethwick

What should I do before the fence goes up?

Clear plants, pots and sheds back from the boundary by about a metre if you can, and lift anything you want to keep. Talk to your neighbour about access and the work. If you know where drains, cables or pipes run near the boundary, tell us at survey.

Do you cover Smethwick?

Yes. Smethwick (B66) is about 2 miles from our West Bromwich base and inside the area we cover. Call 0800 088 6248 or send the form on this page to book a free survey.

How long does it take to replace a fence?

Most garden fences take one to three days, depending on length, post type and how hard the old posts are to remove. Closeboard takes longer than panels because it's built in place. Post concrete needs time to firm up before panels are fully loaded, which we allow for in the programme.

Does Sandwell Council need to approve my fence or gate?

Not for a fence or gate up to 2 m high, or 1 m beside a road used by vehicles. Above those heights, or around a listed building, check with Sandwell Council.

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More services in Smethwick

We'll walk your boundary in Smethwick, talk through post types and confirm a fixed price for the agreed specification.