The True Cost of Last-Minute Temporary Construction Fence Planning

When the crew is ready, equipment is staged, and everyone’s set to go, but there's no temporary construction fence—no work. 

It sounds extreme, but it happens more often than you think. 

According to a report by Construction Dive, delays in securing job sites, including the lack of proper fencing, can cost the construction industry up to $1 billion annually in theft, lost productivity, and increased operational expenses.

More construction companies are recognizing the importance of planning ahead. Yet, many still treat fencing as an afterthought—leading to costly delays and safety gaps.

Sources of the Construction Industry's High-Cost Challenges

• Weak Communication and Management

According to a study by PlanGrid and FMI Corporation found that poor communication, rework, and bad data management cost the U.S. construction industry approximately $177.5 billion annually in labor costs alone.

• Delivery and Availability

Delays in securing temporary construction fences are becoming more common, with 90% of construction projects reporting material shortages and delivery delays, according to a study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

According to Ryan Masotti, SONCO's specialist in the construction industry:

"It’s pretty common for projects to request last-minute fencing, and it always ends up affecting both the budget and the schedule."

The Consequences of Delaying Your Temporary Construction Fence

When fencing is left to the last minute, it leads to more than just a delay. Here’s what can happen:

Safety and Compliance Issues

The National Safety Council's report notes that inadequate safety measures, including poor site fencing, contribute to a significant percentage of workplace injuries.

Higher material costs

When demand for temporary construction fences is high, prices tend to rise. Last-minute orders often come with inflated prices due to availability issues.

Increased labor hours

Rushed chain-link fence installations demand extra time and labor. More manpower is required to meet deadlines, driving up operational costs.

Missed deadlines

One day without fencing means workers can’t move forward, delaying key tasks and causing costly ripple effects that throw off the entire schedule.

Real-World Example

A Texas hospital construction project faced significant delays due to various issues, including inadequate planning and coordination. 

SOCOTEC Advisory, retained on behalf of the structural steel contractor, conducted a comprehensive analysis revealing that numerous factors outside the contractor's control, such as design deficiencies and delays in predecessor activities, impacted the project's timeline and productivity. 

The analysis estimated that the contractor incurred over $13 million in additional costs due to these delays and disruptions.

Temp Fence falling? What causes it and how to help stabilize your fence line.

Why SONCO is the Trusted Partner for Jobsite Safety Solutions

We offer temporary construction fences and add-ons that bring safety and stability to your projects.

• On-time delivery

Most orders arrive within 5–7 business days, keeping your project on track.

• Load capacity

Each delivery can include hundreds of panels.

• Rack system

Comes with panels, bases, clamps, and hardware for easy transport and setup.

• Buy now, pay later

Flexible payment terms to keep your projects moving without delay.

• Contract pricing

Set pricing options available for ongoing projects and repeat orders.

• Full range of products

We supply 8x10, 6x12, and 6x10 chain-link panels in, plus 6ft and 8ft welded wire panels.

• Needed accessories

Finish your fence with bases, braces, fence privacy screens, and branded covers for strength and style.

• 10 warehouses nationwide

From Arizona to Washington, we keep panels and accessories in stock, ready to ship.

See the different fence base alternatives for a temp fence line that surpasses sandbags and concrete blocks in durability and performance.

Get a Quick Quote for Temporary Construction Fence

What sets SONCO apart is our team of experts with deep knowledge of construction projects. 

We know exactly what contractors and construction companies need to stay on schedule and within budget.

Ryan reinforces:

"At SONCO, we work closely with our customers to fully understand their needs and deadlines, helping them plan ahead and get all the products they need on time."

With the right products, expert help, and reliable delivery, SONCO keeps your project on track from start to finish.

Reach out today by emailing sales@soncostore.com or calling 866-254-6510.