In many cases, homeowners install their own fences. But a fence can be one of the biggest do-it-yourself yard projects. It may not be as easy as you think. There are dozens of local companies in your area that can install a fence for you. This means you want to find the right fence company that can do the job on-budget and on-time. To help you achieve this, there are a few helpful tips to consider as you look for a local fence company.
Tips to Help You Hire The Best Local Fence Company
More Than Fences
The company does not need to deal only with fences to be able to install your fence. You also do not need to look for a company. In fact, it does not even need to be a company. You can also look for individual fencers. General landscapers, construction companies, general contractors, a licensed handyman will all be able to install your fence. For your protection, stick with licensed companies and individuals as they are accountable and typically are bonded and insured.
Search Your Neighborhood
Professional fence companies often post their badge onto completed fences to advertise their work. Walk or drive around your local neighborhood, and if you see a fence that you like, check for the badge. If there is no badge and the fence is relatively new, you might be able to ask the owner if they remember who built the fence.
Collect Multiple Estimates
The best advice for looking for a contractor of any kind is to collect multiple estimates before you decide. Multiple estimates almost always produce a broader spread of cost bids, making it much easier to choose the right combination of cost and quality for your project. For busy homeowners, this can seem like a daunting task. And for many home remodeling projects, it can be. But getting estimates for fence installation is considerably easier. Since fence installation is a highly competitive business, sales representatives tend to be flexible and eager to show up quickly. Because this is exterior work, representatives may even agree to visit the property and to work up an estimate when you are not home, making things even easier for you.
Evaluate All Factors That Affect Costs
The fewer complications there are on the land, the easier a fence will be to install. Obstructions such as trees and rocks may hinder the fencing or affect costs. Evaluate the grading of the land too. If you are lucky enough to have a level lot, this will not be a problem. But if there is a significant slope, how the fence is constructed and its cost will be affected. Evaluate access to the job site as well. For example, if the crew will need to manually carry materials up a hill this will add to the costs.
Prepare For Their Visit
When a fencing company representative visits your property, it is important to understand that your property is just one of many addresses the rep will visit that day. Both of you want this task performed quickly yet accurately. Keep the dogs inside, unlock all gates, and clear foliage from around problem areas. It needs to be accessible. Look at where the fence will meet other pre-existing fences or your house, and clear out those areas to a reasonable degree. When the representative is measuring, stay out of the way but remain close if they need anything from you.
Warranty Details
It is important to ask about the warranty. What kind of warranty does the fence company offer? If the company offers a guarantee, does this warranty cover just labor or does it include materials, too? Fences are long-term products so you will be looking for long-term warranties too. You should expect a warranty of at least three years but warranties of seven to nine years are also common. Using a handyman service may not come with a warranty.
Ask the Right Questions
Since you will have prepared for their visit, it is important to have your questions ready for them. Will the fence company obtain permits? Some places require permission from a local government agency in order for work to be done. After the work is finished, an inspector must visit to approve the work and close out the permit. Will the company call the utility locator for you to pinpoint the location of any underground utility lines? Do you need to do this instead? Discuss legal hindrances such as easements and zoning. Reputable local fencing companies should have a ready knowledge of local zoning and setback regulations affecting fence construction. If you have a graded lot, how will the company handle the slope? Will the fence be stepped which can be a problem if you have pets or will it be contoured to run close to the ground? Will the fence’s height vary over the course of its run? Even though you may agree on a 6-foot fence, this height may vary based on the grade of the land.
Conclusion
Are the gates and associated hardware part of the quoted cost? If not, how much will these items cost? What is the company’s timeline? Some fence companies can have backlogs in the spring and summer which means that it may take several weeks or longer for them to get to you. Once they start work, will it work steadily with a good-sized crew? Or do they envision a more piecemeal approach? Hiring the right fence company is important if you want the job done right and at a fair price. For any of your fencing needs, you can reach out to us anytime. We guarantee to inspect your property, provide a fair estimate and will get a quality job done to your satisfaction.
