The Fence Contractor Checklist Every Homeowner Needs to Read

Fencing Contractor Nightmare: A Warning To All Homeowners

When the Smiths decided it was finally time to install a new fence around their backyard, they were excited to start getting quotes from contractors. They wanted the project completed before summer so their kids and dog could safely enjoy the yard. The couple did a quick online search for fencing companies in their area, compared prices on a few websites, and chose a local fence contractor with positive reviews.

However, once the work was underway, things started going wrong. The crew showed up late, the materials didn’t match what was discussed, and the finished fence was shoddy and unstable in parts. The Smiths had to hire another company to redo the entire project, costing them double what they initially planned for.

Do not let this be you! The Smith’s story is a cautionary tale of what can happen if you don’t do your due diligence when hiring a fencing contractor. Rushing through the process and not thoroughly vetting contractors, getting quotes, defining the scope, and inspecting the work can lead to wasted money, delays, arguments, and an unsatisfactory finished product.

This is why having a solid contractor checklist is so important for homeowners. Taking the time upfront to carefully research and select a fencing company, get everything in writing, and be an informed consumer can help avoid fence installation nightmares. Keep reading and learn about the must-have checklist to use when hiring any fencing contractor. Following these key steps will help ensure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.

The Fence Contractor Checklist

Follow these five steps to ensure your new fence is completed to your satisfaction. Beware the potential threats of not doing your research, and have confidence in your investment by being informed.

1. Do Your Research: Thoroughly Research Fencing Contractors in Your Area

Finding the right fencing contractor starts with casting a wide net and utilizing various resources to identify options. Check sites like Yelp, HomeAdvisor, and Google to find contractors in your area. Ask neighbors, friends, or relatives for referrals of companies they’ve used and can recommend. Look up contractors on the Better Business Bureau website to check for complaints.

Once you’ve compiled a list, vet each potential contractor thoroughly. Read through all online reviews, noting any concerning patterns or trends. Look at examples of their past fencing work in photos or by seeing completed projects in person. Research professional certifications and licenses. Check that they are bonded and insured. Call contractors to ask questions and gauge responsiveness.

Taking the time to thoroughly research and vet multiple fencing companies on the front end helps ensure you find an experienced, reputable provider that is a great fit for your specific project. This critical due diligence sets the stage for a smooth installation and long-lasting finished fence. Don’t skip or rush this step – a carefully chosen contractor makes all the difference.

2. Check Out Your Options: Get Quotes from Multiple Contractors

After thoroughly researching fencing companies, the next step is to get quotes. It is wise to get bids from at least 3-5 of the top options you vetted. There are a few key reasons why multiple quotes are essential:

Comparing bids allows you to get a sense of the expected price range for your specific fencing project. This helps avoid getting ripped off by an unusually high quote.
Looking at multiple quotes lets you compare not just pricing but the details of what is included. You can gauge if one is offering more value.
You can evaluate communication styles and professionalism as you interact with each contractor.
Having multiple options means you can choose the contractor that is the best fit for you, not just the cheapest.

While cost is one important factor, don’t make your decision based on price alone. Also, consider experience, reviews, responsiveness, and overall impression. Gathering multiple bids at the start prevents surprises down the road.

3. Be Upfront: Clearly Define the Project Scope and Timeline

After selecting a fencing contractor, it is crucial to clearly define the expected project scope and timeline. Being as detailed as possible sets clear expectations and prevents misunderstandings. Important things to discuss and decide on include:

Materials – What type of wood, metal, vinyl, etc. What size posts and crossbeams? Style and height?
Footage – Exactly how long will the total fence be? Any gates needed?
Timeframe – Agree on a start date and deadlines for each phase. Include the expected completion date.
Work hours – Discuss what hours of the day the crew will be onsite working.
Site prep – Who handles tree/stump removal, grading, permit fees, etc?
Cleanup – Make sure responsibility for hauling materials and cleaning up the site is defined.
Payment terms – Set deposit amount, progress payment schedule, and final payment timeline.
Warranty – Length of the warranty and what is covered should be spelled out.

Leave no detail undefined or assumed. Setting clear project parameters is essential to a smooth installation.

4. Get it in Writing.

Once project details are discussed, the next vital step is to get everything in writing in a formal contract signed by both parties. A thorough fencing contract should include all the details listed above, with any additional penalties or protections. Never pay 100% of the cost upfront. A reasonable deposit of 10-30% is standard. Tie remaining payments to completion of specific phases of the project. And always do a final walkthrough inspection before that last payment.

A signed contract protects both you and the fencing company should any disagreements arise. Having everything documented in writing makes expectations clear and provides important legal protection. Don’t rely on handshake deals – always get a professional fencing contractor agreement.

5. Inspect and Review the Completed Work

Once installation is complete, perform a thorough walkthrough and inspection before making the final payment. Bring your contract and make sure every detail has been handled properly, including:

Materials used match what was specified
Fence is the correct height and length
Posts are securely anchored and sturdy
Gates are properly installed and functioning
Site is properly cleaned up and cleared of debris
No major flaws in workmanship or sloppy cut angles

Carefully inspecting the finished work is imperative to ensure the project was completed to your specifications. Do not hesitate to point out any issues that need to be corrected. Never provide final payment until you are 100% satisfied with the finished fence.

Following every step in this thorough fencing contractor checklist will give you great peace of mind that your project will be handled professionally from start to finish. Doing your due diligence to find the right company, getting multiple quotes, clearly defining the scope, getting it in writing, and inspecting the end result will help ensure you get a beautiful, long-lasting new fence you can enjoy for years to come.

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If you are searching for “fence contractor near me” to find the best fence service providers in your area, we hope you will consider your local Superior Fence & Rail.