Questions to Ask Fence Contractor
Important questions to ask a fence contractor about materials, installation, permits, timeline, warranties, and costs to ensure quality work and avoid surprises.
1Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for fence installation?
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Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for fence installation?
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Why this works
Protects you from liability and ensures professional standards.
2How many years of experience do you have installing fences like mine?
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How many years of experience do you have installing fences like mine?
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Why this works
Experience with your specific fence type (wood, vinyl, chain-link, etc.) matters for quality.
3Can you provide references from recent similar projects?
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Can you provide references from recent similar projects?
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Why this works
Past clients reveal quality, professionalism, and follow-through.
4Will you handle permits, or am I responsible for obtaining them?
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Will you handle permits, or am I responsible for obtaining them?
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Why this works
Some areas require permits—clarify who manages that process.
5How will you determine property lines, and will you call 811 to locate utilities?
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How will you determine property lines, and will you call 811 to locate utilities?
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Why this works
Proper boundary identification and utility location prevent legal issues and damage.
6What fence materials do you recommend for my property and why?
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What fence materials do you recommend for my property and why?
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Why this works
Different materials suit different climates, budgets, and aesthetics—get expert guidance.
7How long will the installation take from start to finish?
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How long will the installation take from start to finish?
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Why this works
Sets expectations and helps you plan around disruption.
8What is included in your quote—materials, labor, permits, cleanup, disposal?
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What is included in your quote—materials, labor, permits, cleanup, disposal?
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Why this works
Prevents surprise costs by defining what's covered.
9How do you handle ground conditions like slopes, rocks, or tree roots?
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How do you handle ground conditions like slopes, rocks, or tree roots?
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Why this works
Challenging terrain may require special techniques or added costs.
10What warranty do you offer on materials and labor?
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What warranty do you offer on materials and labor?
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Why this works
Protects you from defects and installation issues—know coverage terms.
11How will posts be installed—concrete footings, driven, or another method?
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How will posts be installed—concrete footings, driven, or another method?
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Why this works
Installation method affects stability and longevity.
12What happens if you encounter underground utilities or other obstacles?
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What happens if you encounter underground utilities or other obstacles?
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Why this works
Clarifies how delays or complications will be handled and priced.
13Do you subcontract any of the work, or will your crew do it all?
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Do you subcontract any of the work, or will your crew do it all?
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Why this works
Subcontractors may vary in quality—know who's actually doing the work.
14What is your payment schedule, and how much deposit is required?
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What is your payment schedule, and how much deposit is required?
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Why this works
Never pay in full upfront—staged payments protect you.
15How will you protect my landscaping, sprinklers, and existing structures?
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How will you protect my landscaping, sprinklers, and existing structures?
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Why this works
Shows care for your property beyond just installing the fence.
16What maintenance will the fence require, and how often?
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What maintenance will the fence require, and how often?
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Why this works
Different materials have different upkeep needs—plan accordingly.
17Can I see examples of your previous work or a portfolio?
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Can I see examples of your previous work or a portfolio?
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Why this works
Visual proof of quality and craftsmanship.
18What happens if I'm not satisfied with the finished work?
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What happens if I'm not satisfied with the finished work?
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Why this works
Establishes a resolution process before conflicts arise.
19Do you offer any post-installation services like staining, sealing, or repairs?
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Do you offer any post-installation services like staining, sealing, or repairs?
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Why this works
Ongoing relationship can be valuable for maintenance.
20What's included in your contract, and can I review it before committing?
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What's included in your contract, and can I review it before committing?
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Why this works
Ensures all terms are documented and fair before you sign.
Hiring a Fence Contractor Successfully
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Get Multiple Bids
Compare at least three contractors on price, materials, timeline, and professionalism.
Verify Property Lines First
Have a survey done if boundaries are unclear—prevents neighbor disputes.
Check References Thoroughly
Call past clients and ask about quality, timeliness, and how issues were resolved.
Common Fence Materials
Fence Material Comparison
Common Pitfalls
Skipping Utility Location
Hitting gas, electric, or water lines is dangerous and expensive—always call 811 first.
Paying Too Much Upfront
Legitimate contractors don't need large deposits—10-20% is reasonable.