People often mistakenly think that the ground area determines the price of a fence. That is not true. What really matters is the linear perimeter. For a 500 m² plot, this is generally between 80 and 100 metres around, depending on whether it is more square or rectangular.
At Districlos, we see this type of project every day. Here is how to calculate your budget, from simple chain-link fencing to rigid privacy panels.
Calculate the linear perimeter of your plot
If your land is a perfect 500 m² square, you will have just under 90 metres of fencing to install. If it is long and narrow, the distance increases quickly. Also remember to subtract the width of your future gate and pedestrian gate from this calculation.
Another detail often drives up the bill: the nature of the ground. A nice flat plot is easy to fence. By contrast, sloping land will require stepped installation (in offsets), which means more posts. Very rocky ground will increase installation time or require specific equipment.
Flexible chain-link fencing: the budget option
If your only goal is to mark the property boundary without breaking the bank, roll fencing remains hard to beat.
Allow between €10 and €25 per metre for the complete supplies, i.e. the mesh, stakes and tension wires. For your 500 m² plot, the bill will range between €800 and €2,000. It is also the easiest solution to install yourself, which helps you avoid labour costs. The trade-off? Lower resistance to intrusion and a structure that will not support the addition of heavy privacy screens that catch the wind.
Rigid panels: the ideal compromise
This is the current standard in residential gardens. Rigid mesh looks good, holds up well over time thanks to galvanised steel, and adapts to almost any terrain with notched posts.
Plan on €30 to €60 per metre, which puts the supplies budget between €2,500 and €5,000 for 90 linear metres. It is more expensive than roll fencing, but it is a long-term investment that adds value to the home. Above all, it is the only truly solid base if you want to block the view from neighbours later on.
How much privacy screening costs
While we are on the subject, let us talk about overlooking. Closing off your land is one thing; shielding it from view is another. Adding PVC slats, wood or artificial hedge screening to your panels will mechanically increase the budget.
Privacy screening can easily double the final price. A complete solution with panels and a privacy screen quickly comes to between €70 and €120 per metre. To fully enclose a 500 m² plot out of sight, plan a budget of €5,600 to €10,000.
Install it yourself or hire a professional?
All the prices mentioned so far cover materials only. If you outsource the installation, a tradesperson generally charges labour at between €15 and €50 per linear metre. This rate varies depending on the complexity of the job: setting posts in concrete, core drilling into an existing wall, clearing beforehand, etc.
Over 90 metres, that represents an additional €1,500 to €4,500. That is why many of our customers choose to install their fence themselves. Today’s kits are designed to be accessible with minimal tools and a bit of elbow grease.
One last tip before you buy
The material dictates the price: from simple flexible chain-link fencing to premium wrought-iron fences, the range is quite broad…
But before you even open your wallet, call your local town hall to check the Local Urban Plan (PLU). Maximum height, permitted colours, required or prohibited materials: it is better to know your municipality’s rules before you buy than to have to dismantle everything six months later.
Expert in fencing, gates, and outdoor landscaping since 2019.
Holds a Master’s degree in Digital Marketing – SEO, UX/UI.
View LinkedIn profile
