Plan the route people use every day
A separate pedestrian gate can let you enter without opening the vehicle gate. Start with who needs access: residents, visitors, deliveries, children or someone using a wheelchair or pushchair. Discuss clear opening space, thresholds, the approach and room to operate the gate.
Measure the route with the proposed handles, hinges and stops in place. A catalogue leaf width does not tell you the clear space available after fitting.
Choose privacy, handles and a lock together
Compare open-bar and boarded layouts, then decide how someone outside requests access and how a person inside exits. Confirm the lock, latch, handle height and any closer as part of the complete design. A closer changes how the gate moves and needs assessment with the chosen hinges and latch.
If you want electronic entry, discuss power, compatible locks, permissions and what happens during a power failure. Our access-control service can help you plan visitor entry. Shared entrances and escape routes need a site-specific assessment.
Match the gate to its supports
The installer should assess the existing wall, fence or posts before specifying the fixings. Agree the opening direction, finished ground level and drainage around the entrance. Choose materials and finishes that suit the surrounding boundary and the care you can provide.
Get a complete fitting quotation
Ask the quote to identify the gate, frame or posts, lock, handles, closer if proposed, removal work and making good. Include electrical work if required and request the care and warranty terms. If you are also replacing the driveway gate, ask for separate line items so you can compare the combined project.
Use our gate quotation checklist for the wider entrance work, or discuss your side-gate requirements.