Hiring a fence contractor isn’t just about finding someone with the tools—it’s about trusting someone with your property, time, and money.
The right questions can help you avoid shady contractors, prevent surprise costs, and ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
So before you sign that contract or hand over a deposit, make sure you ask these 10 key questions.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is non-negotiable.
A licensed contractor has met your state or city’s requirements, and insurance protects both parties in case of accidents or damage.
✅ You’re looking for:
- A valid contractor’s license
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ comp coverage (especially if they have a crew)
2. How Much Experience Do You Have with This Type of Fence?
Not all fences are created equal. Whether you want vinyl, wood, metal, or chain-link, ask about specific experience with your chosen material.
👉 Bonus tip: Ask to see photos of past projects—especially ones similar to yours.
3. Can You Provide References or Local Reviews?
A good contractor should be proud of their work—and their customers should be happy to talk about it.
Ask for:
- A few recent references you can call
- Links to Google, Yelp, or Facebook reviews
- Any awards, certifications, or recognitions
4. Will You Handle Permits and Property Lines?
Fence projects often require permits, and property lines can’t be guessed. Ask whether they:
- Pull the necessary permits
- Require you to get a land survey
- Will contact utility companies before digging
This protects you from legal issues or neighbor disputes.
5. What’s Included in the Estimate?
Your estimate should be more than a number on a sticky note. It should break down:
- Labor costs
- Material costs
- Removal of old fencing (if applicable)
- Post-installation cleanup
6. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?
You want a fence that lasts. A reputable contractor should offer:
- Workmanship warranty (typically 1–2 years)
- Manufacturer warranty on materials
Ask what’s covered—and get it in writing.
7. How Long Will the Project Take?
Timelines can vary based on weather, permitting, and materials—but a solid contractor will provide:
- An estimated start and finish date
- A clear process for handling delays
8. Who Will Be Onsite During the Project?
Will it be the contractor themselves? A subcontracted crew? Someone new every day?
You want to know:
- Who your main point of contact is
- Whether they do background checks on workers
- If someone is supervising the crew on-site
9. Do You Call 811 Before Digging?
Professional contractors always call 811 (or your state’s equivalent) to locate underground utility lines before digging. If they don’t bring it up—you bring it up.
It’s a safety essential.
10. What Sets You Apart from Other Fence Contractors?
This is where you get to hear their pitch—and measure their confidence, communication skills, and professionalism.
A great contractor will lean into what makes them different:
- Quality materials
- Attention to detail
- Local knowledge
- Reliable customer service
🎯 And that’s exactly what Elite Lawn Care and Fence delivers.
10. What Sets You Apart from Other Fence Contractors?
This is where you get to hear their pitch—and measure their confidence, communication skills, and professionalism.
A great contractor will lean into what makes them different:
- Quality materials
- Attention to detail
- Local knowledge
- Reliable customer service
🎯 And that’s exactly what Elite Lawn Care and Fence delivers.
Ready to Hire a Contractor You Can Trust?
At Elite Lawn Care and Fence, we welcome every question—because we believe transparency builds trust.
Whether you’re ready to get started or still comparing your options, we’re happy to walk you through every step of the process.
📞 Call us today or schedule your free quote to speak with a real, local expert.
