Maybe you want to provide a little security to your property? Perhaps you’re looking for a bit more privacy? In any case, you’re searching for fencing contractors.
But before you make any contact, you need to get your bearings straight. That’s why you’re reading this article. You’re in need of some advice.
Well, that advice is exactly what we’re going to give you. Here’s what to know before contacting fence contractors.
Fence Contractors Should Have Insurance
When you hire a fence contractor, you’re inviting that contractor to come onto your property. As such, there’s a risk that he or she might cause damage to your possessions. At the same time, there’s also a risk that his or her employees will become injured during the project.
For both reasons, you need to make sure that your fence contractor has insurance. Insurance will not only cover any damage that the contractor does to your possessions, but it will also protect you in the event that one of the contractor’s employees becomes injured.
Look out for general liability and workers’ compensation insurances, specifically. If your prospective contractor doesn’t have these, you’re advised to look for another one.
Fence Contractors Often Need to Be Licensed
In addition to possessing insurance, many fence contractors also need to be licensed. Note, though, that the exact licensure needed is dependent on state and municipality.
Here in Texas, fencers are considered to be general contractors. General contractors don’t need to be licensed with the state and so don’t need to possess business licenses of any kind. The same is true of fencers in Houston.
However, if you’re in a state like New York, your fencing contractor should, indeed, possess a license. Not only does the state of New York require this, but so too do a number of its municipalities.
Call up your local government and ask about the types of licenses that fence contractors are expected to possess. Then, use that information to find a fencer who abides by the law.
Experience Means Something
Installing a fence is like anything else; it takes time to get good. This is why, when searching for fence contractors, you’re advised to pursue those with a little experience under their belts.
Sure, new contractors might be able to get the job done. But because they haven’t had the chance to hone their skills, they’re also more prone to making mistakes. So, by hiring one, you are effectively making yourself a guinea pig.
On the contrary, experienced contractors have done this dance hundreds or even thousands of times. They’ve made the mistakes already and know what does and doesn’t work. As such, there’s a much greater chance of them doing the job right.
We recommend choosing a contractor with a minimum of two years of professional experience. If a contractor is maintaining a good reputation after two years, he or she is probably doing something right.
Not All Fencing Contractors Work With All Materials
There are a number of different types of fencing materials available, from vinyl to wood to composite to wrought iron and more. What you might not realize, however, is that now all fencing contractors are equipped to work with each of these materials.
Some might stick to wood and vinyl. Others might stick steel and wrought iron. Some, will, however, work with each and every material.
But before you waste time calling around to contractors who can’t accommodate you, you should check their websites to see if the needed service is provided. Most fencing contractors will keep a list of fencing materials on their respective websites.
Different Fencing Contractors Work in Different Ways
Though fences are generally installed in the same way by each company, the working processes of these companies can vary.
For instance, whereas one company might bring in a number of employees and try to install the fence in a single day, another company might use only a few employees and install the fence over the span of a week. And whereas one fencing company might do prep work off-site, another fencing company might handle the entire project on-site.
None of these methods are any better than the others. However, you might have a preference. If so, you should inquire about them before getting on the phone.
Fencing Costs Vary
Fencing costs are not regulated by the government in any way. As such, different fencing contractors can charge whatever they want to charge. This can result in quite a bit of variation from contractor to contractor.
For this reason, you need to resist the urge to go with the first contractor you contact. Instead, you should call up several contractors and ask each of them for an estimate of the work that you need to have done.
When comparing, be a little wary of any contractor whose rates are especially low. If a specific contractor is charging much less than the others, it’s probably because he or she is lacking in some area.
Reviews Are Available
In case you don’t already know, there are business reviews available online, enabling you to assess any fencing company before making a call. These reviews should give you a pretty decent idea as to the level of service that a specific company provides.
Where do you find these reviews? On sites like Facebook and Google and, of course, Yelp. Search for fencing contractors in your area and see which ones rank the best. Take the reputable ones into consideration and leave the others behind.
Looking for Fencing Contractors in Houston?
Are you searching for fencing contractors in Houston? If so, you’re in the right place. We here at Fitz Roofing are the people to see.
We’ve installed fences around countless Houston properties. Regardless of your needs, our team can serve you.
Contact us now to get the process started!
