What to Ask Before Installing a Gate: A Checklist for Property Owners
Whether you're a homeowner upgrading your driveway entrance or a business owner enhancing perimeter security, installing an automated gate system is a big step. It affects not just how your property looks, but also how it functions, how secure it is, and how easy it will be to maintain in the long term.
Yet too often, owners move forward with gate projects without asking key questions—leading to unexpected costs, frustrating delays, and systems that don’t meet actual needs.
This article offers a practical, no-nonsense checklist of questions every property owner should ask before installing an automated gate system. It’s based on professional best practices and years of experience designing access control systems that last.
1. What’s the Main Purpose of the Gate?
Start by identifying why you need a gate in the first place. Is it for:
Security?
Privacy?
Controlled access?
Aesthetic or property value enhancement?
Vehicle or pedestrian traffic regulation?
Clarity here will influence every other decision, from the gate type to the access control system.
2. How Will the Gate Be Used Daily?
Usage patterns define system requirements.
How many times will the gate open/close per day?
Will it serve residents, employees, customers, or deliveries?
Are there specific peak hours?
Understanding your duty cycle needs helps specify the right motor and components for durability.
3. What Type of Gate Fits the Property?
Every location has spatial and environmental constraints. Ask:
Is there room to swing the gate open?
Would a sliding or vertical lift gate be more space-efficient?
Is the ground flat or sloped?
What material will the gate be made of (steel, aluminum, wood)?
Choosing the wrong gate type leads to mechanical stress, safety issues, or constant maintenance.
4. What Are the Local Code and Compliance Requirements?
Gate installations must comply with zoning laws, safety standards, and in some cases, community or industry-specific regulations.
Do you need to meet UL 325 and ASTM F2200 safety standards?
Is emergency vehicle access required?
Are there restrictions on height, materials, or placement?
What about fire department turnaround space?
A professional integrator like ACSE can help navigate and handle all code requirements.
5. What Kind of Access Control Will Be Used?
Think beyond the physical gate. How will people open and close it?
Remote controls or keypads?
RFID cards or smartphone apps?
Telephone entry systems?
Intercom with video?
The access system must align with user needs and desired convenience or security level.
6. What Are the Power and Wiring Needs?
Gates require power—sometimes more than you expect.
Is there existing power at the gate location?
Will you need trenching or conduit installation?
Are solar options viable for remote properties?
Will low-voltage or high-voltage wiring be required?
Planning the electrical side early avoids budget surprises later.
7. What Are the Safety Requirements?
Safety is non-negotiable. Ask about:
Entrapment protection devices (photo eyes, edge sensors)
Auto-reverse features
Emergency manual release
Audible/visual alerts for gate movement
Ensuring compliance with safety standards protects people, pets, and vehicles—and limits liability.
8. What’s the Long-Term Maintenance Plan?
Automated gates are machines. They need upkeep.
What’s the recommended service schedule?
Who will perform maintenance?
Are parts easy to replace?
What kind of warranty is offered?
Knowing this in advance helps ensure your system operates reliably for years—not just the first few months.
9. Is the Gate System Scalable or Future-Ready?
Your needs may change. Plan for that.
Can the gate motor handle increased use later?
Is there room to add cameras, sensors, or more advanced access control?
Will it integrate with a broader security system?
Future-proof systems save money and hassle as your property evolves.
10. Who’s Doing the Work?
Most importantly: who’s designing and installing your system?
Are they certified (e.g., by the AFA or IDEA)?
Do they have experience with properties like yours?
Will they provide drawings, specs, and permits?
Do they follow UL 325 and ASTM F2200 standards?
At ACSE, our certified team delivers precision and compliance from design through installation.
Why These Questions Matter
A gate installation isn’t just about closing off a driveway or loading dock. It’s about enhancing safety, flow, value, and the experience of entering your property. Asking the right questions protects your investment and ensures that what gets installed is exactly what you need—nothing less, nothing more.
Let ACSE Help You Get It Right
Our team has helped hundreds of clients—from private homes to government facilities—plan and install gate systems that stand the test of time. With our consultative approach, you won’t be guessing. You’ll know your options, understand your system, and feel confident in every component installed.
Ready to take the first step?
Get in touch with ACSE for a site assessment and expert guidance from certified professionals.
