Fencer Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Applying for a Fencer job in the UK? Here is what you are likely to be asked. These questions come from our Fencer question bank of 12 questions, written for UK employers at mid-level level.

Eight Fencer interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. Talk me through how you would install a closeboard fence from start to finish.

Why they ask: This is the staple task of a fencer, and they want to see correct method and sequence.

2. How do you deal with a fence line on sloping ground, and what is the difference between stepping and racking?

Why they ask: Slopes are common, and they want to see practical technique and customer awareness.

3. While digging a post hole you hit what looks like a cable or pipe. What do you do?

Why they ask: Strike risks are a major hazard, and they want to see you stop and follow safe procedures.

4. How do you choose the right fence for a job, such as privacy, security or livestock containment, and which timber treatments matter?

Why they ask: Selecting the right product protects the customer and the fencer's reputation.

5. A customer insists the fence should go in a particular place, but their neighbour says the boundary is elsewhere. What do you do?

Why they ask: Boundary disputes are common in fencing, and they want to see tact and risk awareness.

6. What is the difference between setting posts in concrete, using a driven post and using a post spike, and when do you choose each?

Why they ask: Post fixing method determines durability, and they want to see practical judgement.

7. Tell me about a time a fencing job did not go to plan, such as hitting rock or poor ground, and how you adapted.

Why they ask: Unexpected ground conditions are routine, so they want to see problem solving and customer communication.

8. Why do you want to be a fencer, and what makes a good one?

Why they ask: They want to see genuine interest in the trade and an understanding of what the job demands.

A sample answer to question 1

Talk me through how you would install a closeboard fence from start to finish.

I would start by confirming the boundary and the fence line with the customer, then check for underground services using a cable avoidance tool and plans. I'd string a line between end posts and set out post positions at the correct spacing, usually around 3 metres for closeboard. I dig the post holes, typically a third of the post's length into the ground, so for a 1.8 metre fence that is around 600 to 750 millimetres, depending on ground conditions. I set the posts in concrete or a fast-setting mix, checking they are plumb and level with the string line, and brace them while the concrete cures. Next I fit the arris rails into mortices or use brackets, then fix the gravel boards at the base, and the feather-edge boards overlapping at the front, nailing them with galvanised or stainless fixings. I finish with the capping rail, tidy the site and take away any waste, leaving the customer's garden clean.

Common mistake to avoid: Skipping the services check; Setting posts too shallow or out of plumb

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 12 questions are on the Fencer interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.