Fencing · Free estimate sample

Fence estimate template

The general shape of a fence estimate. Fence pricing is usually quoted per linear foot, but customers understand the number better when layout, materials, labor, gates, and tear-out are visible. Figures are placeholders — open it in Stubsmith and enter your own footage and rates.

Use this template in the app Sample document · illustrative figures only · no signup

Estimate #3302

Sample Fence Co. · Sample date

Valid 30 days

Site layout, utility locate request, and post marking$150.00

Fence materials — posts, panels or pickets, rails, hardware, concrete$2,400.00

Installation labor per linear foot as described in the scope$1,800.00

Gate(s) with hinges, latch, and drop rod as specified$450.00

Removal and disposal of existing fence$350.00

Total$5,150.00

Excludes: property-line survey, permit fees if required, rock or root removal beyond normal digging, grading, and repair of landscaping or irrigation. Customer confirms fence line before work starts. Payment due on completion.

Sample template only. Company, figures, and scope are fictional and for illustration — not a quote, price guide, or market rate.

Common practice

Why it's written this way

Most fence disputes are about where it goes and what was in the ground — not the fence itself.

Why is layout its own line?

Marking the line and calling for a utility locate happens before a post is set. Charging for it separately makes clear the customer is responsible for confirming the property line — the single biggest source of fence disputes.

Why separate gates from fence footage?

Gates carry more hardware and labor per foot than the run. Pricing them separately keeps the per-foot rate honest and lets the customer add or drop a gate without re-quoting everything.

Why exclude rock, roots, and grading?

You can't see what's under the ground until you dig. Naming those conditions as exclusions turns a surprise into a priced change order.

Before you send it

What varies by state

Fence rules are mostly local — town, HOA, and neighbor — but a few state-level items still apply.

LicensingSome states require a contractor or home-improvement registration for fence work above a dollar threshold; others don't license it at all.
Permits and height limitsHeight, setback, and corner-visibility rules are set by the municipality. Many towns require a permit above a certain height or for front-yard fences.
Utility locateCalling 811 before digging is required nationwide; the notice period before you can dig is set by each state.
Property linesWho bears the cost of a survey, and what happens when a fence crosses a line, is a matter of state property law. Put line confirmation on the customer in writing.
Pool fencingIf the fence encloses a pool, state or local barrier codes set minimum height, gate latch, and gap requirements.

General information, not legal, tax, or licensing advice. Requirements differ by state, county, and city and change over time. Confirm with your state licensing board and the local authority having jurisdiction before relying on any of this.

Estimator notes

Common questions

Should a fence estimate be per linear foot or a lump sum?

Quote per foot internally and show the total. Customers compare per-foot rates, but a total with visible categories is what they sign.

Who is responsible for the property line?

The customer. State it on the estimate. If they want a survey, price it as a separate line or exclude it.

Do I need a permit for a fence?

Depends on the town, the height, and the location on the lot. Check before quoting and either include the fee or exclude it explicitly.

How do I handle a fence shared with a neighbor?

Contract with one party only. If both are paying, write separate estimates. Splitting one document between two customers creates collection problems.