Old Fence Removal Tips for New Installation Success

Many ageing fences may not entirely collapse. Instead, they often begin to tilt gradually until a panel detaches during a storm, indicating a crucial need for replacement.

Once you have arranged for a new fence installation, it is essential to carefully remove and dispose of the old fence—a task frequently postponed until the last moment. This guide outlines vital considerations to keep in mind before dismantling the existing panels.

Engage Your Neighbour Before Removing the Fence

If the fence marks the boundary between properties, it is crucial to discuss its removal with your neighbour. This conversation helps to prevent potential disputes down the line.

In New South Wales, the Dividing Fences Act 1991 stipulates how neighbours can share costs associated with a dividing fence and the steps necessary to reach an agreement. NSW Fair Trading provides comprehensive guidance on this issue, including actions to take if an agreement cannot be established. Familiarising yourself with this information before dismantling the old fence can help avoid uncomfortable discussions later.

Key points to address include the timeline for fence removal, how long the boundary will remain exposed, and the division of costs. A brief discussion can help prevent misunderstandings and complications.

Grasping the Old Fence Removal Process

The details of fence removal primarily depend on the type of construction.

Timber paling fences typically disassemble in a systematic manner. Initially, the palings are removed, followed by the rails and finally the posts. The palings are generally easy to take off, but the posts may pose challenges due to their usual concrete anchoring.

Colorbond fences can be dismantled more swiftly, yet they can be cumbersome to handle. While the sheets detach easily from the rails, they are lengthy, have sharp edges, and do not stack neatly. Similar to timber fences, the posts are generally set in concrete.

Older boundary fences may comprise various materials, including chain wire on steel posts, timber lattice over a low brick base, and in some cases, durable hardwood. The type of material affects both the time required for removal and the associated costs.

Determining the Fate of Posts and Footings

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

Concreted posts can either be excavated with their footings attached, leading to holes along the boundary, or they can be cut off at ground level, leaving the footings in place. The best choice depends on where the new fence posts will be positioned. If the new fence aligns with the existing line, the buried footings could complicate the fencer’s job on their first day.

It is wise to consult with the fencer regarding their preference before scheduling the removal. They will likely offer a clear recommendation, and a quick phone call can prevent complications when they arrive to commence work.

Essential Checks Before Dismantling the Old Fence

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

If the fence resembles flat sheeting rather than palings or Colorbond, it is crucial to halt any demolition efforts until you can identify the material. SafeWork NSW and your local council offer resources for recognising these materials as well as 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.

Responsible Disposal of Old Fence Timber After Removal

Fence materials can be classified 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 note that treated pine, commonly utilised in modern fencing, should never be burned. Burning treated timber releases harmful preservatives into the smoke and ash, making it unsuitable for fire pits, wood heaters, or backyard bonfires. While old fence palings might appear to be a free source of firewood, they are not safe to burn.

Conversely, hardwood palings from genuinely old fences can hold value 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.

Identifying Additional Items to Clear Alongside the Old Fence

A fence line rarely remains free of debris. Over time, vegetation that has grown alongside the fence and items stored against it often accumulate.

• 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 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.

Preparing for the Gap Between the Old and New Fence

Planning for this gap is crucial, 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 dogs, small children, or a pool in your yard, it is essential to have a plan in place before the removal, rather than scrambling afterwards. 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 forms part of the pool barrier, consult your certifier before any removal occurs.

Coordinating Old Fence Removal Services in Sydney

Our fence removal services form 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 removed alongside 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fence Removal

Must the Old Fence Be Removed Before the Fencer Arrives?

In most instances, 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.

Can Concrete Footings from the Old Fence Posts Be Removed?

Yes, the footings can be removed along with the posts, leaving 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 Consent Necessary for Removing a Dividing Fence?

Since a dividing fence impacts both properties, it is important to discuss the matter with your neighbour instead of 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 Keep 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 story. If you wish to keep some, please inform us before the job commences, 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 needed. 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.