Starting your own small business opens up a world of opportunities, from setting your own schedule to tailoring your business model to your passions. And you’re drawn to the fencing industry, this guide is for you. We’ll run through everything you need to know about fencing qualifications, licences, fence installer insurance and more.
What is fencing?
Fencing is the act of installing, building, repairing, or maintaining the fences that define a property’s boundaries. Some fences are used to merely mark out property lines, while others are used for security purposes, or to divide up a piece of land into sections for specific uses. Certain types of fencing, such as pool fencing, are subject to stricter fence safety standards and regulations.
What skills should a fence builder have?
Technically speaking there is no formal or mandatory training required to become a fence installer. However, there are a handful of important skills that will benefit your business, including:
- building and construction;
- general maintenance and handyman;
- mechanical tool use; and
- customer service and communication.
Fencing qualifications
There are several types of certifications that aspiring fencers can choose from. While TAFE does not offer courses that are exclusively focused on fencing, many people will complete a Certificate III or IV in a related construction subject. Another option is to enrol in the Certificate I in Construction – Fencing RPL program offered by the Master Builders Association.
That said, one of the ways to become a fencing professional is to learn by doing. You can become an apprentice and learn from a more experienced and skilled fencer, or apply directly for jobs via trade employment websites.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
While you don’t need a licence to erect a fence around your own yard or property, there are specific fencing regulations in each Australian state that fencing business owners are required to adhere to when providing their services to customers.
Each council can have different rules and regulations around general construction and renovation, including fencing. A good rule of thumb is to check with the local council before you take on any fencing job.
Fence licences in NSW
Fence builders in New South Wales are subject to the same laws as any contractor or tradesperson in the state. This means that a licence is required for work carried out above $5,000 in value.
Fence licences in Queensland
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) requires all fence builders to get a fencing licence unless the fence is being constructed on non-agricultural or pastoral land and costs less than $3,300. Many residential fences, therefore, do not need a licence.
Fence licences in Western Australia
Building contractor licences are only required in Western Australia for jobs in excess of $20,000. Professional fencers in WA are required to hold relevant fence installer insurance, including Public Liability and Professional Indemnity, and should be able to prove their competency in fence building and maintenance.
Fence licences in Victoria
In Victoria, fencing contractors do not need to hold a specific licence unless they are undertaking additional building projects as defined by the Victorian Building Authority.
Fence licences in Tasmania
There are no fencing licence requirements in Tasmania. However, building contractors need to have accreditation and a construction induction card to carry out work worth more than $5,000.
Fence licences in South Australia
Fence building in South Australia is covered under the building contractor’s licence – provided by Consumer and Business Services. Fencing contractors in South Australia are also required to hold a Construction Induction Card.
Fence licences in the Northern Territory and the ACT
Fence builders in both Australian territories don’t need a licence or building registration.
Reduce your exposure to risk with BizCover
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