Hidden Costs of Privacy Fences in Missouri: What You Need to Know
Homeowners in Missouri should prepare for hidden costs when installing privacy fences, including expenses beyond materials and basic labor. Understanding these extra fees is essential to avoid budget surprises.
Common Hidden Costs
- Permitting and Fees: Missouri cities often require permits for fence installation, with costs usually between $40 and $150.
- Land Preparation: Clearing obstructions, grading, or removing old fencing can add hundreds to the project cost if your yard isn’t ready for installation.
- Labor Complexity: Fences built on sloped terrain, rocky soil, or areas with limited access may see labor costs spike from the usual $5–$15 per linear foot.
- Remediation and Compliance: Addressing hazardous materials (asbestos, lead), repairing underground utilities, or updating wiring/plumbing can incur additional charges.
- Contractor Overhead and Markup: If a general contractor supervises the job, expect an overhead fee of 13% to 22% over the base cost.
- Sales Tax: Materials and supplies are taxed, which is often excluded in initial estimates.
Features and Customizations
- Gates and Accessories: Gates cost anywhere from $50 to $400 each, while decorative posts or features can increase costs by $2–$4 per linear foot.
- Nonstandard Heights and Styles: Increasing fence height for added privacy (such as 8-foot fences) generally boosts cost by 20% to 30% or more per linear foot.
- Material Delivery: Delivery charges for materials and equipment, especially if customized or supplied from out of town, can inflate the final bill.
Unexpected Site and Legal Issues
- Property Line Disputes & Surveys: Obtaining a property survey to clarify boundaries can cost $300–$700, often required if neighbors contest placement.
- Zoning Restrictions: Certain municipalities place height/location restrictions or require special approvals, which can lead to redesign fees or penalties.
Tips to Reduce Surprises
- Get a detailed, itemized quote listing all potential extras.
- Ask contractors about specific local permitting and code compliance.
- Confirm inclusion of delivery, tax, and custom features in your estimate.
Budgeting for these hidden costs ensures your Missouri privacy fence project stays on track financially and legally.