How to Choose a Fence Contractor: What to Look For

Hiring the right fence contractor makes the difference between a fence that stands straight for 20 years and one that leans, rots, or falls apart in under five. The fencing industry has low barriers to entry, which means quality varies widely. This guide covers what to look for, what questions to ask, and what red flags should make you walk away.

Essential Qualifications

Licensing

Licensing requirements vary by state and city. Some states require contractors to hold a general contractor's license for projects over a certain dollar amount. Others have specific fencing contractor categories. At minimum, a legitimate fence contractor should have a valid business license in your jurisdiction. In states like California, contractors need a C-13 fencing license for projects over $500.

Insurance

Verify the contractor carries general liability insurance (minimum $500,000, preferably $1 million) and workers' compensation insurance if they have employees. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you could be held liable. Ask for a certificate of insurance and verify it is current — do not just take their word for it.

Experience

Look for contractors with at least 3-5 years in business. Fence installation has a learning curve, and inexperienced crews make costly mistakes in post setting, panel alignment, and gate installation. Ask how many fences they install per month and whether they specialize in the material you want (wood, vinyl, aluminum, etc.).

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

1. How long have you been installing fences?
2. Are you licensed and insured? Can I see proof?
3. Do you handle permits, or is that my responsibility?
4. What post depth and spacing do you use?
5. Do you set posts in concrete or gravel?
6. What brand and grade of materials do you use?
7. Do you call 811 (utility locate) before digging?
8. What does your warranty cover, and for how long?
9. Can you provide references from recent jobs?
10. What is your payment schedule? (Avoid paying more than 30-50% upfront)

Red Flags

• No written contract: Every fence job should have a written contract specifying materials, dimensions, timeline, payment terms, and warranty. Verbal agreements offer no protection.
• Demands full payment upfront: A standard payment structure is 30-50% deposit, balance on completion. A contractor who demands full payment before starting has no incentive to finish the job properly.
• No insurance documentation: If a contractor cannot or will not provide proof of insurance, move on. This is a basic business requirement.
• Door-to-door solicitation: Legitimate fence contractors rarely go door-to-door. This tactic is often used by unlicensed operators or storm-chasers.
• Pressure to sign immediately: Any contractor who pressures you to sign a contract on the spot, especially with "today-only" pricing, should be avoided.
• No physical address: A contractor who operates only from a cell phone and P.O. box may be difficult to reach if warranty issues arise.

Comparing Quotes

Get 3-5 written quotes and compare them line by line. Each quote should break down:

• Material type, brand, and grade
• Post material (wood vs steel), depth, and spacing
• Total linear footage and fence height
• Number and type of gates
• Old fence removal (if applicable)
• Permit costs and who handles them
• Warranty terms
• Estimated timeline

Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than others. Cheap quotes often reflect thinner pickets, fewer posts, shallower post holes, or no concrete footings. These shortcuts save money upfront but lead to premature fence failure.

Find Rated Contractors

Browsing reviews and ratings from past customers is one of the best ways to evaluate a contractor. Check Fence Contractor Pros to compare contractors in Texas, Florida, Georgia, and California.

Related guides: Fence Installation Cost · Fence Permit Requirements · Fence Installation Cost Guide