Common fence repairs around Tallahassee
- Leaning or broken posts: usually rot at ground level on wood fences, or a post that was never set deep enough. The post is replaced or braced and reset in concrete.
- Loose and broken boards: replaced with matching boards; new wood looks lighter at first and weathers in.
- Sagging or dragging gates: new hinges, a reinforced hinge post, an anti-sag kit, or a rebuilt gate frame. See gates.
- Vinyl panels out of their rails: often after high wind; panels are re-seated or replaced.
- Chain link: bent top rail, loose fabric, a section pushed in by a falling limb.
- Termite and rot damage: damaged boards and rails are replaced; if the posts are affected, the bigger question is how much of the fence they hold up.
After a storm
Tallahassee has seen its share of storm damage in recent years, from hurricanes such as Hermine and Michael to the tornadoes that crossed the city in May 2024. After a storm, fence repair calls pile up quickly. If your fence is damaged:
- Take photos of every damaged section before anything is moved, for your insurance claim.
- Check your homeowners policy: fences are often covered under "other structures," subject to your deductible.
- If the fence encloses a pool or keeps a dog in, set up a temporary barrier right away.
- Have fallen trees removed by a tree service first; the fence contractor rebuilds after.
Fence damaged? Get it looked at.Get a free quote
Repair or replace?
A fair rule of thumb: if the damage is limited to a few posts, sections or a gate, repair it. If posts are failing all along the line, if most boards are rotten or the fence is near the end of its life, replacing it often costs less over the next ten years than repairing it twice. A good contractor will tell you which situation you are in and will quote both if you ask.
Repairing a fence you didn't build
Bought a house with a fence already on it? Repairs are still straightforward. A few things help the contractor quote quickly: photos of the damage, the fence height and material, and whether there is an HOA that requires matching materials or colors.
What repairs cost
Small repairs, like replacing a post and a few boards or re-hanging a gate, are commonly in the range of a few hundred dollars. Larger storm damage is priced by the number of sections and posts. Most contractors have a minimum charge for a service visit. Ask for the price in writing before work starts.
Before any post hole is dug, Florida law requires a locate request through Sunshine 811 at least two full business days ahead, so buried power, gas, water and cable lines get marked. A good contractor handles this for you; ask to make sure.
How getting a quote works
- Tell us about the project. Fence type, rough length, timing and ZIP code. It takes about a minute.
- One local contractor gets in touch. We pass your request to one licensed fence contractor who works in your area. Not five companies, not a bidding war on your phone.
- Free on-site measure and written quote. They walk the line, check gates, slopes and trees, and give you a price in writing. You decide if and when to go ahead.
If the fence is past saving, look at wood, vinyl or aluminum replacements, and our fence cost guide.
Common questions
Will someone come out for a small repair?
Many contractors take small repair jobs, sometimes with a minimum charge. Describe the damage in your request, and add photos when the contractor calls or texts.
Is fence storm damage covered by insurance?
Often, under the "other structures" part of a homeowners policy, minus your deductible. Damage from neglect or old age usually is not. Check your policy and document the damage with photos.
Can you match my existing fence?
Usually close. New wood is lighter until it weathers or is stained. Older vinyl profiles may be discontinued; the contractor will suggest the nearest match.
