Choosing The Right Fence Company For Your Property

Having a fence built or installed on your property involves a lot more than just pounding a few posts into the ground. If you’re not handy with such projects, you’ll more than likely look at hiring a fence company to take install the work for you. There are a number of things you should consider when you are shopping for someone to do this type of job for you.

When you start your search, look for contractors who own or work out of an established office, or other commercial location. It’s not uncommon for some contractors to work out of their homes, or even their garages, and pass themselves off as professionals. While they may be able to perform the work for you, it is less likely that they will be available after the job is completed should you need additional service or have problems with your fence. Check with family or friends to find out the names of a few companies, and then do some research on them. Remember that the Better Business Bureau or your local Chamber of Commerce are good resources to find out about a company or contractor’s reputation, and research if there have been any recent complaints filed regarding them or their work.

After you’ve located a few fencing installation companies you think might meet your needs, contact or visit each one for a brief interview. If possible, consider working with one that uses company employees, rather than a company that sub-contracts out the work to others. Company employees are often more thoroughly trained and can answer questions about the details of a job, such as when materials will arrive and when construction can be scheduled. As a result, the customer is able to stay abreast of how the job is going, as well as have a reasonable timetable of when the work should be completed. Because the sub-contractor’s schedule is set by the parent company, he or she may work on a number of installations at the same time. Use this time to also learn more about the company itself, such as how long they have been in business, and what types of jobs they specialize in, if any. Ask about the amount of training and experience the employees have as well. See if they are willing to provide the names of a few of their previous clients as references. If so, contact one or two and find out about their experience with the business.

Once you find a company that you want to work with, there are a few more questions to ask before work can begin. The cost will obviously be one of your main concerns, but also find out if they are willing to provide a written guarantee for their work. It is common to receive a one-year warranty for the labor. Be sure that the individual who will be installing the fence is licensed and insured, as well as bonded, in case of any accident or injury while the job is in progress. Find out about the work ethic of those who will be performing the job and how long the employees have been with the company. Ask for an estimated timeframe for the length of the job from start to finish. Keep in mind that different types of fence take varying amounts of installation time, but the contractor should be able to provide a reasonable estimate for you. Be sure that everything is explained to your satisfaction, and that you get all the details in writing.