CarpentersUpdated March 2026 · 2 min read

How to Quote a Pergola Build in Australia

How to quote a pergola construction project. Covers timber and steel options, roofing, footings, council requirements, and pricing for Australian carpenters and builders.

What to Include in a Pergola Quote

A pergola quote should cover: concrete footings and post brackets, posts (timber or steel), beams and rafters (size and spacing), roofing (polycarbonate, Colorbond, shade cloth, or open), fascia and trims, guttering (if solid roof), hardware (bolts, brackets, stirrups), and any electrical (lighting, fans, GPOs). Specify all timber species and sizes.

Pergola Costs in 2026

Timber pergola (treated pine, open roof): $250–$400/sqm. Hardwood pergola with Colorbond roof: $400–$700/sqm. Steel frame with Colorbond: $500–$900/sqm. A standard 4x3m pergola typically costs $5,000–$15,000 total depending on materials and roofing. Insulated panel roofing (e.g., SolarSpan) is the premium option at $150–$250/sqm for roofing alone.

Footings and Structural Requirements

Standard pergola posts require 400x400mm concrete footings at minimum 450mm deep (check local requirements). Posts are typically 100x100mm or 125x125mm hardwood, or 90x90mm steel. Beam sizes depend on span — always refer to span tables or get engineering advice for spans over 3m. Connected pergolas (attached to the house) may need an engineer's certificate.

Council Approvals

Pergola rules vary by state and council. Generally, pergolas under 20sqm and under 2.7m high that aren't in front setbacks are exempt from approval in most states. However, rules vary significantly. Always check with the local council before quoting. If approval is required, add council application fees and any engineering certification costs to the quote.

Quoting Tips

1. Measure the area and check ground levels on site. 2. Confirm if the pergola will be freestanding or attached to the house. 3. Include lighting and electrical as an add-on option. 4. Quote roofing as a separate section so clients can compare options. 5. Note any council approval requirements and costs.

Pro Tips

Confirm freestanding vs attached — attached pergolas have different structural requirements
Check council exemption rules before quoting
Quote multiple roofing options so clients can compare
Include lighting and fan options as add-ons
Specify timber species and sizes in the quote
Add guttering and downpipe costs if using a solid roof