What Should I Ask Before Hiring a Fence Contractor?

Hiring a fence contractor is a significant decision that can impact your property’s security, privacy, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to create a safe backyard for your family or a business owner who wants to boost your property’s security, choosing the right fence contractor is crucial.

At Fence Masters, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana with their fencing needs for over 40 years. We want to ensure you hire the best team for your project. To get started, here are the key questions you should ask any fence contractor before making your decision.

About Experience and Credentials

Are you insured and licensed?

Hiring an insured and licensed contractor is critical to protecting yourself during the fence installation. Insurance, including both general liability and workers’ compensation, ensures that you are not held financially responsible for accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur during the project. On the other hand, licenses demonstrate that the contractor meets the professional and legal standards required to operate in your state or locality. Always request proof of insurance and licensing before moving forward, and be wary of contractors who hesitate or fail to provide this information. A professional contractor will readily share their credentials to establish trust and credibility.

Can I see examples of your past work? Do you have references?

Evaluating a contractor’s previous projects is one of the best ways to assess their skill and style. Ask for a portfolio of photos or videos showcasing their completed work, especially projects similar to what you envision for your property. Additionally, request references from past customers and take the time to contact those references. Hearing directly from other customers about their experience with the contractor will give you valuable insight into their work ethic, reliability, and the quality of their craftsmanship. A reputable contractor will be pleased with the work they’ve done and have no issue providing references or examples.

Can you find my property pins?

Accurately locating property lines is a crucial step before beginning any fence installation. Property pins, which mark the boundaries of your land, ensure the fence is placed correctly to avoid encroaching on a neighbor’s property or violating local zoning regulations. You may be required to hire a surveyor to locate the pins. You should look to see if you have a plat of survey which can determine your property lines. If you cannot find yours, check with your town to see if they have a copy!

About Fence Options and Suitability

What types of fences do you have available?

The right fence for your property depends on your goals, preferences, and budget, so exploring a range of options is important. A good contractor should offer a variety of fencing materials, such as vinyl, wood, aluminum, chain link, and wrought iron.

How do I choose the right fence for my needs?

The best fence for your property depends on what you hope to achieve. Do you want privacy, security, aesthetic appeal, or all of the above? Share your priorities with the contractor. A good contractor will walk you through the decision-making process to ensure the fence meets your needs and complements your property.

Is there a warranty on your fencing products?

Warranties are a sign of a contractor’s confidence in the quality of their work and materials. Ask if the fencing products come with manufacturer warranties and whether the contractor provides a warranty on labor. Contractors who stand behind their work are more likely to deliver a high-quality, durable fence. At Fence Masters, we provide a 5 year labor warranty on all residential fences, and a 1 year labor warranty on all gates.

About The Installation Process

Who handles the permitting process?

Permits are often required before installing a fence, depending on your area’s local regulations. A professional contractor should either handle the permitting process for you or clearly explain what is required and guide you through it. Installing a fence without the proper permits can result in fines, delays, or even the removal of the fence. At Fence Masters, you are responsible for obtaining your permit unless the specific town you live in requires us to do so. Your salesperson will inform you of who is responsible.

Am I responsible for contacting utility companies?

Digging for fence posts or other installation processes can disrupt underground utility lines, potentially causing damage or service interruptions. Before any work begins, it’s essential to contact utility companies to mark underground lines. Many contractors will take care of this step as part of their service, but some may expect you to handle it. Confirm who will be responsible for contacting utility companies to ensure the project moves forward safely and without unnecessary delays. At Fence Masters, we call in the dig numbers to ensure no utility lines will be in the way of your installation.

How long will the installation take?

The timeline for fence installation depends on the project’s size, the complexity of the design, and any challenges posed by the property. Ask the contractor for a rough timeline and ensure it aligns with your schedule. A trustworthy contractor will provide realistic timeframes and keep you updated on the project’s progress. At Fence Masters, most fences can be installed in a day or two, but this is all depending on your specific project.

What challenges does my property present?

Every property is unique, and certain features like slopes, uneven terrain, trees, or existing landscaping can present challenges during fence installation. A dependable contractor will assess your property and discuss how they plan to address these obstacles. Understanding how the contractor handles these challenges will give you confidence in their abilities.

About Pricing and Financing

What is included in the quote?

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what is included in the contractor’s quote to avoid any surprises later on. Ask for a breakdown of the cost of materials, labor, permits, and cleanup. A thorough quote ensures transparency and makes it easier to compare contractors when evaluating bids.

Do you offer financing?

If budget constraints are a concern, ask if the contractor provides financing options. Discussing financing options early on helps you make informed decisions about the overall budget and ensures the project stays on track without unnecessary financial stress. At Fence Masters we offer financing through Wisetack and you can get prequalified on our website.

Trust the Experts at Fence Masters

Choosing the right fence contractor is about more than price—it’s about value, reliability, and service. Asking the right questions will ensure your vision becomes reality without complications.

At Fence Masters, we pride ourselves on quality, efficiency, and affordability. Our highly skilled team serves Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana with unmatched fencing solutions, from residential privacy fences to commercial-grade gates. Reach out to our team today and see why over 50,000 property owners have trusted us to secure and beautify their spaces.