Gates

Gates should be properly maintained at all times and, wherever possible, be self-closing.  Consideration should be given to keeping gates locked at night. Double width gates and those wide enough to allow access by vehicles should be locked when not in use and certainly at night.

If the gate is hidden from public surveillance, then it should be stronger than normal.

A gate with broken hinges, broken joints, wet or dry rot, warped, twisted, too tight or too loose would be considered unsuitable until the defects have been rectified. Remember that persistent slamming will ultimately break joints and hinges.

Make sure bolt holes are clear and hinges and catches are well maintained and oiled.

You should bear in mind that there may well be a public footpath leading through your grounds. If this is the case and your gate is a double opening type, consider restricting entry to allow one person through at a time, like a wicket gate.