Ask for an itemised installed quote that separates the wall structure, excavation, drainage, removal and design requirements.
What does a retaining wall quote include?
A supply-only price covers a different scope from a completed retaining wall.
For a useful comparison, ask each contractor to price the same dimensions and list the work included in the total.
| Quote item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Wall structure | Material, finish, posts or supports, footings and installation |
| Groundworks | Excavation, access, spoil removal and any provisional allowances |
| Drainage | The specified drainage system, outlet and associated work |
| Existing structures | Removal of the old wall, fence handling and reinstatement |
| Project documentation | Design, approval and inspection responsibilities where applicable |
| Final price | GST treatment, exclusions, variations and quote validity |
Cost per m2 and cost per lineal metre
Square metres describe the wall face; lineal metres describe its length.
For example, a wall 12 m long and 1 m high has a face area of 12 m2, while the same length at 1.5 m high has a face area of 18 m2.
That's a measurement example only, with the actual design and price determined for the site.
Where the height changes, ask the contractor to show the wall sections used in the quote.
Describe your wallCompare materials against the same brief
Concrete sleepers, timber sleepers, masonry, sandstone and gabions each involve different products and installation details.
Choose the appearance and intended use first, then ask which options suit the proposed design and access.
Request alternatives against the same scope so you can see the effect of changing material without also changing drainage or preparation allowances.
Prepare a useful Brisbane site brief
Include your suburb, photographs taken from an accessible position and the narrowest access point for machinery.
Mention a driveway, building, pool, fence or other wall close to the proposed work so the contractor can assess what information is needed.
For a boundary project, identify the proposed alignment and any existing survey or design documents.
Ask your building certifier or designer to confirm the approval and engineering requirements for your property before the scope is finalised.
Common questions
How much will my retaining wall cost?
The price needs a defined wall size, design and site scope, so request an itemised quote using the checklist above.
Is drainage included in an installed price?
Confirm it in writing, including the specified system and outlet, so each quote covers the same work.
Can I compare quotes by the m2 rate alone?
Use the rate alongside the total scope, since removal, access, groundworks and design allowances can be priced separately.