Removing an Old Fence: Steps Before Installing a New One

Many ageing fences may not completely collapse. Instead, they often lean over time until a panel detaches during a storm, signalling a critical moment for urgent replacement.

After arranging for a new fence installation, it is vital to remove the existing fence and dispose of it properly—a task that is often overlooked until the final moments. This guide highlights essential considerations to address before taking down the old panels.

Discuss Fence Removal with Your Neighbour Before Starting

If the fence serves as a boundary between properties, it is essential to have a discussion with your neighbour regarding its removal. This dialogue is crucial to prevent potential disputes later.

In New South Wales, the Dividing Fences Act 1991 outlines how neighbours can share costs associated with a dividing fence and the procedures for reaching an agreement. NSW Fair Trading provides clear guidance on this topic, including steps to take if an agreement cannot be reached. Familiarising yourself with this information before the old fence is dismantled can help avoid uncomfortable discussions later.

Practically, it is important to clarify key points such as the timeline for the fence removal, the duration during which the boundary will be exposed, and the division of costs. A brief conversation beforehand can prevent misunderstandings and complications.

Understanding the Old Fence Removal Procedure

The complexity of fence removal largely depends on the type of construction.

Timber paling fences typically disassemble in a systematic way. Initially, the palings are removed, followed by the rails and finally the posts. While the palings come off quickly, the posts can be challenging due to their usual concrete anchoring.

Colorbond fences can be taken down more quickly but can be unwieldy to handle. Although the sheets detach easily from the rails, they are long, have sharp edges, and do not stack neatly. Like timber fences, the posts are generally set in concrete.

Older boundary fences may consist of various materials, including chain wire on steel posts, timber lattice over a low brick base, and occasionally enduring hardwood. The type of material influences both the time required for removal and the associated costs.

Deciding What Happens to Posts and Footings

This decision should be made before the removal, as it significantly impacts the fencer’s work more than yours.

Concreted posts can be either excavated with their footings attached, resulting in a series of holes along the boundary, or they can be cut off at ground level, leaving the footings behind. The choice depends on the planned positioning of the new fence posts. If the new fence aligns with the existing line, the buried footings could complicate the fencer’s job on their first day.

It’s advisable to consult with the fencer regarding their preference before scheduling the removal. They will likely provide a clear recommendation, and a quick phone call can prevent complications when they arrive to begin work.

Critical Checks Before Taking Down the Old Fence

Certain older boundary and side fences in Sydney may not be made from timber or steel. Instead, they might consist of flat grey fibre cement sheeting, often attached to steel posts, and in some instances, this material could contain asbestos.

If the fence resembles flat sheeting rather than palings or Colorbond, it is crucial to pause any demolition efforts until you can identify the material. SafeWork NSW and your local council offer resources for recognising these materials and information regarding licensed handlers. This is not a decision to rush during a weekend project; proper identification and understanding of the correct procedures are vital.

Disposing of Old Fence Timber After Removal

Fence materials can be categorised into distinct groups. Steel posts, Colorbond sheeting, and chain wire form one category, while timber constitutes another. Concrete footings are handled separately.

It is important to emphasise that treated pine, commonly used in modern fencing, should not be burned. Burning treated timber releases harmful preservatives into the smoke and ash, making it unsuitable for fire pits, wood heaters, or backyard bonfires. Although old fence palings may seem like a free source of firewood, they are not safe to burn.

On the other hand, hardwood palings from genuinely old fences can be valuable if you have a specific purpose for them. If you wish to keep some for future use, please communicate this preference before the job begins.

What Other Items Will Be Removed Alongside the Old Fence?

A fence line rarely remains free of debris. Vegetation that has grown alongside the fence and items that have been stored against it often accumulate over time.

• Vegetation along the fence line: creeping plants, overgrown shrubs, and roots that may have contributed to the fence leaning.
• Timber offcuts and old palings: remnants from previous repairs, often leaning against nearby structures.
• Pots and garden edging: items that have remained adjacent to the fence and have not been relocated.
• Old outdoor furniture and equipment: items that have been tucked away out of sight along that side of the yard.
• Green waste from clearing the area: this is necessary for the fencer to work efficiently, and it generates its own waste load.

To ensure the fence line is fully prepared for the new installation, consolidating all debris into one load optimises the use of the truck and facilitates the fencer’s arrival.

Planning for the Gap Between the Old and New Fence

It is essential to plan for this gap, as it can unexpectedly catch homeowners off guard.

During the interval between the removal of the old fence and the installation of the new one, the boundary will be exposed. If you have pets, small children, or a pool in your yard, it is crucial to have a plan in place before the removal, rather than scrambling after. Temporary fencing, securing pets indoors, or timing the removal to coincide with the fencer’s arrival are all effective strategies. Not having a plan can lead to complications.

If a pool is present, keep in mind that pool barrier regulations remain applicable even when the boundary fence is down. If the boundary fence is part of the pool barrier, consult your certifier before any removal occurs.

Coordinating Old Fence Removal Services in Sydney

Our fence removal services are part of our comprehensive backyard demolition and junk removal offerings, with debris and cuttings from the fence removal transported in the same vehicle under green waste removal.

When you contact us, please provide details about the fence: the approximate length in metres, whether it is timber, Colorbond, or wire, if the posts are concreted, and any additional items that need to be cleared from that side of the yard. If a fencer has already scheduled a start date, mention this, as aligning the removal with this date can lead to a smoother process.

Consider two additional resources: the differences between council hard waste and private junk removal, which can be useful before placing fence timber on the kerb, and the comparison between skip bags and skip bins if you prefer to dismantle the fence yourself over a weekend.

Common Questions About Old Fence Removal

Should the Old Fence Be Removed Prior to the Fencer’s Arrival?

In most cases, yes. Most fencers prefer a cleared boundary, allowing them to begin setting up on their first day rather than spending valuable time stripping and stacking the old fence. Consult your fencer to clarify their preferences, as some include removal in their services while others do not, which may determine whether you need our assistance.

Is It Possible to Remove the Concrete Footings from the Old Fence Posts?

Yes, the footings can be removed along with the posts, creating holes in the ground, or the posts can be cut off at ground level, leaving the footings intact. The best option depends on the positioning of the new posts, so consult with the fencer first and relay their advice before we commence work.

Is Neighbour’s Consent Necessary for Removing a Dividing Fence?

Since a dividing fence affects both properties, it is important to discuss the matter with your neighbour rather than making unilateral decisions. The Dividing Fences Act 1991 outlines how neighbours in New South Wales can agree on and share the costs associated with a dividing fence. Ensure this is settled before scheduling the removal.

Can I Retain the Old Palings for Firewood?

Not if they are treated pine, which is common for most modern palings. Burning treated timber is unsafe as it releases harmful preservatives into the smoke and ash. Older hardwood palings are a different matter. If you wish to keep some, please inform us before the job begins, and we will set aside a stack for you.

What Other Items Can Be Cleared Along with the Fence?

The entire area alongside the fence can be cleared as required. The fence line typically contains overgrown vegetation, old timber leaning against it, and various items stored out of sight. Since the boundary must be cleared for the fencer, consolidating everything into one load is a more efficient use of the truck than scheduling separate removals.