How to Calculate the Cost of Chain Fence by the Foot

Calculating the per-foot cost of a fence involves collecting all the costs related to building the fence and then dividing that total cost by the number of running feet of fence involved. Simply put, if you build 400 feet of fence around your property and it costs you--for labor and all materials--$800, then the fence cost you $2 per foot to build. With your receipts for the project and a calculator, an exact cost is easily determined.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Calculator
• Receipts for fence materials

1. Save your receipts for everything you bought to build the fence. This includes concrete for setting the fence posts, the fencing material and fence posts, and any tools purchased, even the cost of refreshments you consumed during the fence construction project.

2. Total the dollar amount of the receipts related to fence construction with your calculator.

3. Divide the total of the receipts by the length of the fence, in feet. The result is the cost of the fence, per foot.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the receipts for the fence construction for another reason; they may be tax-deductible. Consult your tax adviser.

References

• "Modern Real Estate Practice"; Fillmore W. Galaty, et al.; Dearborn Real Estate, 2002Dearborn Real Estate, 2002; p. 450

Resources

• Cost and Estimating Guide