Emergency Gate Repair: What to Do When Your Gate Breaks

The first and most crucial step is to ensure everyone’s safety. If the gate is an automatic one, immediately turn off its power supply. This can usually be done at the circuit breaker. Disconnecting the power prevents the gate from moving unexpectedly, which could cause injury or additional damage. Once the power is off, check for any visible obstructions on the track or around the gate’s moving parts. Sometimes, debris like rocks, branches, or even built-up dirt can stop a gate from functioning correctly.

Next, inspect the gate for obvious signs of damage. Look for bent tracks, broken chains, loose wires, or damaged hinges. If you have a sliding gate, check the wheels and rollers. For a swing gate, examine the arms and pivot points. Take note of any unusual noises you heard before it stopped working, such as grinding, popping, or squealing. This information will be incredibly valuable when you call a professional for gate repair, as it helps them diagnose the problem more quickly. Avoid touching any exposed electrical components, even with the power off.