Should You Remove Your Old Fence Before Installing New Fencing in Adelaide?
- Emma K
- Dec 26, 2025
- 3 min read
If you're planning to install new fencing around your Adelaide property, one of the first questions you'll face is: "Do I need to remove my existing fence first?" The answer isn't always straightforward, and making the wrong decision can cost you time and money.
When Old Fence Removal is Essential
1. Structural Damage or Rot
Adelaide's climate—with hot summers and occasional heavy rains—takes a toll on fencing materials, especially timber. If your existing fence shows signs of:
Severe rot or termite damage (common in untreated timber)
Leaning posts indicating foundation failure
Cracked or warped panels compromising structural integrity
Rust through metal components (older steel fences)
Then removal is non-negotiable. Building new fencing over compromised structures creates liability issues and won't meet Adelaide council requirements.
2. Boundary Line Accuracy
Many older fences in established suburbs like Salisbury, Elizabeth, or Para Hills were installed without proper surveys. If your new fence needs to sit on the exact boundary line—especially important for:
Properties in new developments (Blakeview, Riverlea Park, Two Wells)
Boundary disputes or unclear property lines
Council compliance requirements
You'll need to remove the old fence to ensure accurate placement. This is particularly crucial in Adelaide's northern growth corridor where new subdivisions require precise boundary compliance.
3. Different Fencing Systems
If you're upgrading from timber to Colorbond Good Neighbour fencing, the installation systems are completely different:
Old timber fences: Use timber posts in ground or concrete
New Colorbond systems: Require steel posts with specific concrete footings
Trying to work around old posts is impractical and compromises the new fence's structural integrity. Professional installers will always recommend complete removal in these cases.
When You Might Keep the Old Fence
Partial Removal Options
In some Adelaide properties, particularly larger blocks in Gawler or Adelaide Hills, you might keep sections of old fencing if:
One side is in good condition while another needs replacement
Temporary privacy is needed during staged installation
Budget constraints require phased replacement
However, this approach only works when the old fence is structurally sound and not on the exact boundary line where new fencing will go.
Retaining Wall Integration
If your existing fence includes a retaining wall component—common on sloping blocks in Angle Vale or upper Gawler—you may be able to:
Keep the retaining structure if engineered and sound
Remove only the fence panels above
Install new Colorbond Good Neighbour fencing on top
This requires professional assessment to ensure the retaining wall can support new fencing loads.
The Cost Factor
What to Expect
Old fence removal in Adelaide typically costs:
Timber fence removal: $15-$25 per metre
Colorbond/metal removal: $20-$30 per metre
Concrete post removal: Additional $50-$80 per post
Disposal fees: $200-$400 (depending on material and quantity)
For a standard 30-metre residential fence, budget $600-$1,200 for complete removal and disposal.
Package Deals
Many Adelaide fencing contractors, including those servicing Munno Para, Smithfield, and northern suburbs, offer package pricing that includes:
✓ Old fence removal ✓ Site preparation ✓ New fence installation ✓ Complete cleanup and disposal
This bundled approach often saves 10-15% compared to hiring separate removal services.
The Professional Assessment
Before making any decisions, arrange a site assessment with a licensed Adelaide fencing contractor. They'll evaluate:
Existing fence condition and structural integrity
Boundary line accuracy using property plans
Council compliance requirements for your suburb
Access considerations for machinery and waste removal
Timeline implications for your project
In Adelaide's northern suburbs, most professional installers include this assessment free with their quote.
The Bottom Line
For most Adelaide homeowners installing new Colorbond Good Neighbour fencing, complete removal of old fencing is recommended. It ensures:
Proper boundary line placement
Structural integrity of new installation
Council compliance
Professional finish
Long-term durability
While keeping sections of old fence might seem like a cost-saving measure, the complications often outweigh the benefits. Invest in complete removal for a quality result that will last 30+ years in Adelaide's climate.
Ready to upgrade your fencing? Get a free quote that includes old fence removal, new Colorbond Good Neighbour installation, and complete site cleanup. We service Angle Vale, Gawler, Salisbury, Elizabeth, and all Adelaide northern suburbs. Note on this we do not currently remove Asbestos products.
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