My Blog On New Things.

December 24

As a self-employed person and small business owner, one of the key lessons I’ve learned over the last 30 years is that many people fail to recognize the value of the experience and expertise I bring to my work. I invest significant time and effort to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, experimenting with new products(hardware), attending training sessions, and refining my skills. Yet, I often hear clients say my pricing is "too expensive." To better understand this perception, I decided to research how my pricing compares to the industry standard. When it comes to products like alarm systems, IP cameras, gate motors, electric fencing, garage door automation, and CCTV systems, the cost of the hardware is largely out of my control. As a business and installer, I do benefit from trade prices, but my markup is minimal—often below the supplier’s recommended retail price. Here’s an example: if you ask me for a CCTV camera, I can offer options ranging from R220 to R1200, depending on the features you need. Similarly, for IP cameras, prices can vary from R900 to R6000 and more, depending on their capabilities. The price difference is directly tied to the functionality of the product and what it’s meant to do. When it comes to labour charges, my research revealed that my rates are actually on the lower end of the spectrum. For example, the cost to install a gate motor, garage door opener, IP cameras, electric fencing, or alarm systems is generally higher than what I charge. Even my hourly rate for repairs or maintenance is below the market average, as confirmed by information I found online. My online Seaches Revealed that in South Africa, labour costs for installing a gate motor typically range between R500 and R800 per hour, with total installation costs amounting to R2,500 to R5,000, depending on various factors. Garage door motor Installation, Standard Installation: R800–R1,500 for single or double garage doors. Complex Installation: R1,500–R3,000 or more for intricate setups, such as electrical wiring, removing old components, or installing multiple motors. CCTV Camera Installation,
Labor costs usually make up 30–40% of the total installation price. The overall cost depends on the system's complexity, size, components, site, and location. Basic setups start at approximately R2,000. Advanced systems can cost R5,000 or more. Electric Fencing Pricing, the cost for electric fencing installation ranges from R150 to R400 per meter, including installation. The total cost varies based on the fence's length, height, materials, and any additional features. On average, prices are around R250 per meter. I will provide a more detailed discussion on electric fence pricing in my next blog. Understanding this context is crucial when evaluating pricing. Quality work, years of experience, and a dedication to staying current in the field come at a cost—but it’s a cost that reflects the value provided. Thank You For Taking The Time To Read This. Regards. Colin

January 25

IMPORTANT NOTICE: ELECTRIC FENCE COMPLIANCE
In South Africa, an Electric Fence Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is mandatory. Without it, your insurance may reject claims related to your electric fence.
Insurance Risks
• If your electric fence is damaged by a falling tree, lightning, or fire, your insurance may not cover the cost unless you have a valid CoC.
• Personal liability claims: If someone—including an intruder—is injured by your fence and you lack a CoC, you could face legal action, high legal fees, and even criminal charges.
Property Sales
• You cannot sell your home or property without a valid Electric Fence CoC.
• A CoC ensures that your fence complies with SANS 10222-3 regulations.
• To obtain a CoC, you must hire a certified and registered installer approved by the Department of Labour.
I am a certified, registered, and trained professional, authorized to upgrade, inspect, and certify electric fencing in compliance with SANS 10222-3 regulations. Contact me for assistance with ensuring your electric fence meets legal standards.

Cost of Installations
The average price of electric fencing in South Africa is approximately R250 per meter, with most installations ranging between R200 and R300 per meter, including installation. However, the final cost depends on various factors, such as the number of strands, fence height, terrain, installation complexity, and material quality. Some installers advertise rates as low as R115 per meter, but achieving this price likely means using the cheapest materials and installing a simple, straight fence with minimal lines. As soon as a fence requires adjustments, such as stepping due to height changes or additional wall-top brackets for pillars, the price increases.
Other factors that affect pricing include:
• The length of HT cable needed from the energizer to the fence
• The type of energizer used and whether it requires an outdoor enclosure
• Optional features like a keypad or WiFi module
• The number of earth spikes required
• The need for a lightning diverter
• The number of gates, each sliding gate requires a gate switch
• Pedestrian gates and the underground conduit required for HT cables
• Additional security features like line loops
• The number of lines on the fence (6, 8, 10, etc.)
• The material of the wall-top brackets (round bar, flat bar, or square tubing)
• Compliance with regulations, including the requirement for a Certificate of Compliance (COC)
Every electric fence installation is unique, making it impossible to set a fixed per-meter rate like R100, R150, or R250. The final price depends on the customer's requirements, the materials used, and the site conditions, whether it's brick walls, palisade fencing, or a free-standing electric fence.
Certain sites add even more complexity. For example, in areas with rocky ground, simply digging a hole for a post or driving in a Y-standard isn’t possible. Additionally, many installers cut corners to lower costs, ignoring important regulations. While this might reduce the initial expense, it can lead to compliance issues later, forcing you to spend more to bring the fence up to standard.
When requesting quotes, customers should consider all these factors, rather than just focusing on the per-meter rate.

 

 Thank You For Taking The Time To Read This. Regards. Colin