Choosing the right fence contractor is just as important as choosing the right fencing material. A quality contractor can help with not just installation but design, property lines, permits, choosing materials, as well. A subpar contractor, on the other hand, can leave you dealing with hidden fees, low-quality materials, and rushed installation. 

It’s important to ask the fence contractor plenty of questions before signing a contract to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn some questions you should ask about the contractor themselves, your fence project, local requirements, the installation process, pricing and contracts, warranties, and maintenance. 

1. How Long Have You Been Installing Fences?

Ask the fence contractor about how much experience they have in the fencing industry. More specifically, make sure they have plenty of experience working locally — soil, weather, and terrain can vary from place to place, so it’s important to choose a contractor that has worked with properties like yours. 

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Ask for verification that the fence contractor is licensed and insured. This gives you assurance that the contractor is legitimate and will not hold you liable if anything goes wrong during installation. Without liability insurance, you won’t be protected if an accident or property damage occurs. 

3. Can You Provide References or Examples of Past Work?

You should ask the fence contractor for references or examples of past projects they’ve completed that are similar to yours. It’s also a good idea to check online reviews to get a feel for the kind of work they do — it’s normal for a company to have one or two negative reviews, but if you notice a pattern of complaints, you should probably rethink working with this particular contractor. 

4. What Type of Fence Do You Recommend for My Property?

Ask the fence contractor to explain which materials and styles they recommend for your property. A reputable contractor should explain the reasoning behind their recommendation rather than simply pushing you toward the most expensive option — they should consider your privacy, security, and budgetary needs. 

5. Will I Need a Permit or HOA Approval?

Ask the contractor about navigating local regulations, height restrictions, and HOA rules. Ask whether they can help you with permits and approvals, as well.

6. Who Is Responsible for Calling 811?

811 is the number you need to call before digging to send surveyors to the property to locate underground utilities. Otherwise, the project could interfere with buried pipes and cables, which can be expensive to fix. Ask the fence contractor how utility marking will be handled and when it will occur. 

7. What Does Your Installation Process Look Like?

Ask the fence contractor what their installation process looks like. Have them walk you through the site assessment, layout and marking, utility checks, post and fence panel installation, gate installation, and final inspection processes. Understanding the process helps you know what to expect. 

8. How Long Will the Project Take?

Ask the fence contractor for an estimated start and end date for your fence project. Recognize that weather, the size of the fence, your property’s terrain, material availability, and permitting can all affect the schedule. 

9. What Is Included in the Contract?

Confirm that the exact fence style, material, height, length, gate specifications, and installation details will be included in the contract. Check whether the removal of the existing fence (if applicable) and cleanup are included in the estimate. Make sure verbal agreements are documented in writing. 

10. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

Ask about warranties covering both materials and workmanship, including how long coverage lasts and if there are any exclusions. Talk about how warranty claims are handled and callback and repair processes. Knowing you’re covered if you need additional services after the project’s completion can give you valuable peace of mind. 

11. What Maintenance Will the Fence Require?

Finally, ask what maintenance you’ll need to perform to keep the fence in good condition. Depending on the material, you should be prepared to restain, seal, and clean it, along with managing vegetation around the fence. 

Work With Utah’s Best Fence Contractor

At Bronco Fence, we work hard to build personal relationships with our customers, which includes answering all their questions about what they can expect when working with us. We want to ensure you have peace of mind when working with us, and you can rest assured that we’ll be in close communication with you throughout your project. 

When you work with us, you’re choosing a fence contractor that communicates clearly, provides detailed explanations, and stands behind its work. Contact us today to get started!