How to Choose Fence Contractors

A fence is a barrier that marks the boundaries of your property. Fence Companies Anchorage AK can help you install a high-quality fence that raises your home’s value.

Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations. Also, look at local websites and hardware stores. Learn what each fence contractor offers. For example, will they handle all the required permits? Do they locate all utility lines before digging?

A fence contractor constructs, erects, alters, or repairs all types of fencing and related structures, including corrals, runs, railings, cribs, playground game enclosures, guard rails and barriers, backstops, posts, and flagpoles (excluding masonry walls). To do this well, a fence contractor needs to have strength and physical stamina as well as construction skills. They also need to have good business management knowledge and the ability to follow contracts and other laws that govern their work.

When selecting a fence contractor, it is important to ask for references from previous clients. This is an opportunity to find out how long they have been in business and whether or not the contractor has satisfied customers. Ideally, you should look for a company with a proven track record of at least five years.

Getting estimates from several contractors is also essential. This will allow you to compare rates and find the best fit for your project. When requesting an estimate, be sure to get it in writing and ask how long it will be valid. Also, ask the contractor to visit your home to survey the job site. It is a good idea to make sure they will contact your utility companies before digging so you are aware of any underground lines that may be in the area.

Many states require that fence contractors have a license before they can begin work. The requirements vary from state to state, so it is best to check with your local government or licensing agency for specifics. Some states have apprenticeship programs, while others only require a high school diploma or GED certificate and work experience under a licensed journeyman fence contractor for four full-time years.

Experience

The amount of experience that a fencing contractor has may play an important role in the quality of the work that they provide. The longer they have been in business, the more likely they are to have developed an efficient process and honed their skills to provide top-quality work at affordable rates. If you are looking for a contractor, ask them about their previous projects and check out the results on their website. Depending on the state in which you live, the fencing contractor you choose will need to be licensed or insured. This goes a long way toward preventing costly mistakes that could be made during the installation process. For example, fencing contractors that are not licensed may not know how to mark property lines, which can lead to a fence being built on your neighbor’s land.

Another thing to consider is whether the fencing contractor has a written contract. This will explain the payment process and schedule, which are crucial. It will also outline the responsibilities of both parties and protect you from any problems that might arise during the project. A reputable fence company will not require cash payments or deposits. If a company does, it is probably not a good idea to hire them.

While comparing quotes, be wary of a contractor who charges very low prices. It is likely that they will cut corners somewhere in the process, which can result in poor workmanship or even damage to your property. In addition, a reputable fencing contractor will contact the utility companies before digging to ensure that there are no gas or electric lines in the area and will take responsibility for any damages caused by their workers.

Licenses

Fencing contractors need to have the proper licenses in order to work legally. Most states require that fencing companies have a business license, and there may also be other requirements. You can check with the Contractors State Licensing Board to find out what the specific rules and regulations are in your area.

To become a certified fence contractor, you must pass two pre-qualifying exams and six business exams. These exams will cover topics related to fencing installation and other industry standards. You must also provide three letters of recommendation. These letters should come from people who know your professionalism, character, and general reputation for honesty. Generally, these letters cannot be written by immediate family members or coworkers.

Insurance policies are essential for fencing contractors. A general liability policy will protect you if a third party claims that your work caused property damage. It will pay for the resulting expenses, such as repair costs or medical bills. Fence contractors should also have workers’ compensation insurance. This will help pay for employees who are injured on the job as well as cover their lost wages.

In addition to insurance, fencing contractors should have a warranty for their work. This will give customers peace of mind that the job will be completed properly. Typically, a fencing company will offer a two- to five-year warranty. However, make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully. You may want to have an attorney review the contract to ensure it meets your expectations. Also, be sure the warranty is transferable if you decide to sell your company.

Insurance

Depending on the type of work they do, fence installation contractors may need different insurance policies. For example, if they install picket fences for homeowners, their premiums will be lower than those of a contractor who builds fencing for construction sites or electric fences. In addition, they should carry professional liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect themselves from claims for damages caused by their mistakes or omissions while performing their jobs.

Fence installers should also have a commercial general liability (CGL) policy that covers them in the event of property loss or bodily injury to third parties. If a fence they install damages a nearby vehicle or causes an injury to a pedestrian, the CGL policy will pay for the resulting repairs or medical bills. It will also pay for defense costs in the event that a lawsuit is filed against the fence contractor.

Another important policy for fence installation contractors is workers’ compensation insurance, which pays for employee medical expenses and lost wages if they are injured at work. This type of insurance is mandatory for employees in many states and can help protect a fence contractor from expensive lawsuits.

For companies that frequently transport tools, materials, and other equipment to customer locations, a commercial auto insurance plan is essential. This policy will cover vehicles and trailers in the event of damage or theft. Lastly, a fence installer should have tool insurance, which provides coverage for tools that are stolen or damaged in transit or while they’re loaded into and unloaded from a parked vehicle.

When choosing a fence installation company, make sure they provide you with references from previous customers and examples of their work. Then, ask them to walk your yard and take measurements so they can give you an accurate quote. Then, ask them what types of materials they will use and how long it will take to install the fence. Finally, make sure they include all prices and specifications in the written estimate.

Reputation

It’s important to choose a contractor with a solid reputation in your area. This means good customer reviews and referrals from neighbors who’ve had their fences installed by the company. It’s also helpful to see whether they’re licensed, bonded, and insured. This provides extra financial protection for homeowners in case the company does not finish a job or doesn’t pay its financial obligations.

Many fence contractors have Google Business listings that display real reviews from customers. Look for both good and bad reviews, as it’s rare that a company has only positive reviews. Read the bad ones to see why the customer was dissatisfied and how the company responded. If there are several negative reviews, you may want to move on to another candidate.

Most quality fencing companies will offer some type of guarantee for their work. This is typically not a money-back guarantee but rather a promise that the contractor will correct any issues with the workmanship within a certain time period. Some manufacturers also provide warranties that require proof of professional installation by a qualified fence company.

Homeowners should also check whether the fencing company they are considering has worker’s compensation and general liability insurance. These policies protect the homeowner in the event that a contractor is injured on their property while working. If a contractor is not insured, homeowners should consider looking for another option.

It’s important to take the time to find a quality fence contractor that fits your needs and budget. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can be sure that the fencing contractor you hire will be able to deliver on their promises. To get started, fill out the contact form, and a friendly Artistic Fence employee will be in touch to schedule your free estimate appointment.