Essential Guide to Hiring the Right Fencing Contractor
Discover how to vet a fencing contractor before you sign a written contract. At Stand Strong Fencing, we believe customers should know what to look for in a fencing contractor before they reach an agreement. That way, they encounter fewer issues during a project and enjoy better results at the end. Find out how to choose the right fence contractor below.
Tips For Finding the Right Fencing Contractor
Smart customers equip themselves with knowledge about the fencing industry so they can get the best deals in town. Everyone looks for quality construction at a reasonable price. Customers can set themselves up for success by using some of the following tips.
1. Perform Some Research
Get a good understanding of fencing before committing to any fencing contractor. The time spent during research will help a customer pick the right person to do the job. Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations. Browse online and look at the online reviews customers have left.
Find out if the fence contractor has rebranded itself and the reason behind it. Check out their rating at the Better Business Bureau and look up their membership in the American Fence Association (AFA). Make sure the company has a legitimate address and phone number.2. Collect Multiple Price Quotes
For all home improvement services, consider getting multiple quotes. This process will help property owners get the best price and work quality. When the fencing contractors inspect the property, ask how long until the estimated price expires and continue searching for better deals in the meantime.
3. Double Check on License and Insurance
Ask for proof of a business license and insurance policies before hiring a professional fence installer. Most fencing contractors will readily supply their license numbers. A fence contractor’s insurance policy will cover accidents and property damage that occur during the job.
Although anyone can become a fence contractor, fence companies often look for people with experience in woodwork, construction, and repair. In trade schools, a professional contractor may also obtain short, formal training courses on installing fences.4. Consider Extra Costs and Calculations
Extra expenditures can arise unexpectedly. Before the representative’s visit, take a look at the property and assess any obstacles that might hike up the prices. For example, a sloping property will require more work and expertise during the fence construction.
If the crew has difficulty accessing the job site, this will also affect the final costs. Trees, boulders, or other barricades can obstruct the path and affect the price of the fence installation. A survey of the property beforehand will help customers know what to expect.5. Plan Out the Representative’s Visit
Representatives from fencing companies will visit the property before you have a fence installed to make assessments and lay the groundwork. Often, these fence contractors will hit several residences in one day. So, making the best of the visit count will benefit both parties.
Clear fallen leaves and debris around the proposed site. Keep pets inside and make a mental note of where the new fence may meet any obstructions or pre-existing fences on the property. Give the fence contractor space when they take measurements, but stay close by in case they have any questions.6. Discuss Installation Details
Hashing out all the details about a project will provide a clear overview of the work as it progresses. Establish a contact person so all queries and complaints go to this individual. Asking several questions to a bunch of different people can create chaos.
Learn the design of the fence panels and details of installation. How will the company handle waste disposal? Will the fence installation include the gate? Is the contractor staying throughout the project? Ask all these questions when speaking with the contact person.7. Inquire About Warranty
Request details regarding the company’s warranty as it relates to installation, workmanship, and products. Fences fall into the category of durable products, so their warranties should last quite long. Homeowners can anticipate the fence warranty to last three or more years.
8. Payment and Timeline
Request an estimate concerning how long the fence installation project will take. Homeowners should remember another crucial detail: most fence companies tend to have their hands full during spring and summer. Getting an idea of how long the fence installation will take allows customers to plan better.
Obtain a written estimate of the fees before agreeing to anything. Some businesses require payment in full, while others take partial payment at the start or accept installment payments. Do they take credit cards? Getting all these details beforehand saves a lot of trouble afterward.What Fence Contractors Undertake
A fence contractor’s job will vary from project to project depending on the task at hand. However, their job description will include installation, designing, and maintenance of various styles of fences for commercial and residential estates.
A fence contractor can create a custom fence, change an old fence, or install a ready-made fence. Other services fencing contractors offer include:- Demarcation of boundary lines
- Design consultation
- Installation consultation
- Fence building
- Gate installation
- Building and zoning permits
- Fence repair and maintenance
Other Important Considerations
Besides checking with the Better Business Bureau, planning for a site visit, and requesting proof of insurance, several other important considerations factor into the entire process of building a fence. A good contractor will aid consumers with permits, zoning, and utility lines. Legitimate businesses will have no qualms about introducing their crew to owners of residential and commercial properties.
Permits
Ask if the fencing company handles permits. Often local government bodies require permits to build fences around properties. After the fence installation, an inspector will visit the construction site to check and approve the project.
Crew
Inquire about the number of workers and their schedules before hiring a fence contractor. As the project progresses, will more people join the crew? Or, will it follow a step-by-step process where a set group of workers cover one part of the construction, leaving the rest of the project to another group? Will the chain link fence installation involve other subcontractors?
Zoning
Talk with a professional fence contractor regarding legal issues like zoning and easements. An established local fence company will already have a good idea about zoning regulations and rules concerning construction of fences.
Utility Lines
When digging up the property to install anything, construction workers who cut corners may miss a crucial detail that can cause a big inconvenience for homeowners. Cutting underground utility lines can result in power outages, affect water supply, and cause sewage leaks. Ensure that the general contractors know where the utility lines are or hire a utility locator.
Conclusion
Hire the best local fence company to enhance your property’s safety, security, and curb appeal. Our professional company offers premium fencing solutions at reasonable prices. Call Stand Strong Fencing at (866) 516-8692 to schedule a free consultation and receive an estimate amount.
