Plan your fence maintenance and repairs.
Use these checklists to document the problem, compare product requirements, and prepare questions for a contractor. Find guidance for finishes, posts, gates, pickets, and pool barriers.
Fence planning checklists
Assess a leaning fence before repair
A leaning section needs a cause identified before it is straightened. Posts, footings, connections, and surrounding ground may all need inspection. Use these observations to explain the problem to a contractor.
Assess a sagging gate
A dragging gate can involve post movement, loose connections, or a distorted frame. Start by documenting what changed; choose a repair only after the supporting parts are assessed.
Replace broken fence pickets
A few damaged boards may be repairable when the supporting fence remains sound. Compare the replacement profile, dimensions, finish, and connections before buying materials.
Prepare for a pool-barrier compliance check
Pool-barrier rules depend on the project and applicable requirements. Gather the design and product details for the local building official and contractor; this checklist is not a compliance certificate.
When a contractor should assess the fence
These signs mean the remaining structure, a pool gate, or a powered opener needs a site-specific assessment rather than a general home repair.
- Multiple posts leaning or cracked at grade
Several affected supports need a contractor to assess the condition of the whole run before choosing repair or replacement.
- Large sections down from wind or a fallen tree
Unstable fencing or blocked access needs a site-specific assessment. Describe any immediate hazards and confirm contractor availability.
- Pool gate not self-closing or self-latching
A malfunctioning pool gate needs prompt professional attention. Do not rely on the barrier to prevent access until the problem is addressed.
- HOA sent a repair-or-replace notice
Confirm the notice and approval requirements with the HOA, and ask the contractor for the documentation the association requests.
- Drive gate won't open or auto-opener failed
Do not force a powered gate or open its equipment to diagnose a failure. Give the operator model and symptoms to a qualified gate professional.
- Rot spreading through multiple panels
Ask a contractor to assess the remaining rails, posts, and connections and compare the written scope of partial repair and replacement.
Official references and related guides
California Swimming Pool Safety Act
State safety-feature requirements for covered pool projects; confirm local code applicability.
CSLBCSLB License Lookup (C-13 Fencing)
Verify California fencing contractor license status before hiring.
DigAlert.orgDig Alert 811 (Utility Locate)
Free utility locate service, call before digging any post holes.
County of San Diego PDSSan Diego County Fence Setback & Height Rules
Residential fence height and setback rules for unincorporated San Diego County.
Match with an independent fence professional
If the DIY route isn't for you, we're a phone call away and match you with a local fence pro.