How much does it cost to replace a few rotted fence posts in Metro Vancouver?

Replacing individual rotted fence posts in Metro Vancouver typically costs $150-$400 per post, with most homeowners spending $500-$1,500 total to replace 3-5 posts along an otherwise sound fence. This is one of the most common fence repairs in the Lower Mainland because our wet marine climate accelerates post rot at the soil line — the point where moisture is constantly present.

What's included in the per-post cost: The $150-$400 range covers removing the old post (and its concrete footing, which is the most labour-intensive part), digging a new post hole to the correct depth, setting a new 4x4 cedar or pressure-treated post in concrete with a gravel drainage bed at the bottom, and reattaching the existing rails and fence boards. The lower end of the range applies to posts in easy-access locations with soft soil, while the higher end reflects posts in rocky ground, tight side-yard access, or situations where the old concrete footing is particularly large and difficult to extract.

Material costs are modest — a 4x4 x 10-foot Western Red Cedar post runs $15-$25, a bag of pre-mix concrete is $8-$12, and drainage gravel is a few dollars per post. The majority of the cost is labour. If you're replacing a gate post, expect to pay at the higher end of the range because gate posts should be 6x6 ($25-$45 each) and require more concrete and precise alignment to ensure the gate swings and latches properly.

The gravel drainage bed is critical in Metro Vancouver. A 4-6 inch layer of drainage gravel at the bottom of the post hole, beneath the concrete footing, allows water to drain away from the post base instead of pooling around it. This simple step can add 5-10 years to post life in our wet climate. Many older fences were installed without this drainage layer, which is why their posts rotted in the first place.

Signs that a post needs replacement include visible rot or soft wood at the base (poke with a screwdriver — if it sinks in easily, the post is compromised), the post wobbling or leaning when pushed, the post separating from the concrete footing, or dark discolouration and fungal growth at the soil line. If you catch a failing post early, you can often replace just that post before the surrounding fence sections are damaged by the lean.

DIY vs. professional: Replacing a single fence post is technically possible as a DIY project, but it's physically demanding work — especially removing the old concrete footing, which can weigh 50-100+ pounds and require a pry bar, shovel, and significant effort. For multiple posts, hiring a fence contractor is strongly recommended. A professional can replace 3-5 posts in a single day with proper equipment, ensure each post is plumb and at the correct height, and guarantee the work. Most fence contractors in Metro Vancouver offer free estimates, so get 2-3 quotes before committing. Vancouver Fence Builders can help you find local fence professionals through the Vancouver Construction Network.

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