Building a fence on your property is one laborious task many people opt to outsource to a local contractor. The professionals know best where to build the fence and things to avoid, such as underground wires.
It’s important to foster a friendly working relationship with the contractor you hire to build the fence. There are seven things to consider when choosing the right fence builder. What are they?
1. Know What You Want
You’re hiring a contractor, not a mind reader. The fence builder can help narrow down the specifics of the best fencing options, but it’s important to have a general idea of what you’re looking for.
Is the fence a privacy fence or a place for your dogs to run freely? What materials are you considering? There are four main fence types: aluminum, chain-link, wood, and vinyl. The type of fencing could point you toward a certain type of contractor, such as an expert wood fence builder.
2. Consider Budget Costs
Your dream fence and the fence you can afford may not be in the same price range. Your contractor can help determine how much the fence will cost. They will factor in the price of materials and the price of labor.
If you have unlimited funds, you can splurge for your dream fence. Otherwise, you should have a strict budget in mind before getting estimates from one or more contractors.
3. Set a Deadline
Most people work best with deadlines, including contractors. Having a firm end date will keep the project on goal. Lay out clear expectations with the fence builder so that there’s no misunderstanding.
However, be amenable to unexpected delays.
4. Ask About Warranties
Warranties aren’t just for big box stores. Smaller companies can and do offer warranties. Speak to your contractor about what extras are offered, including warranties and product guarantees.
5. Get it in Writing
Even though you should seek an amicable and trustworthy relationship with your contractor, a contract is an absolute must. If things go wrong, both sides are protected. Get the estimated costs, deadlines, warranty details, and other relevant information in writing.
It could save you a hassle later.
6. Read the Reviews
Unless the fence-building company you hire for the project is one of the rare companies without a social media presence, there will be reviews. A study into the importance of online reviews revealed that over 90% of consumers read reviews when making a purchase or hiring a contractor.
Online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, but by reading multiple reviews, you will get a general feel for the professionalism and reliability of the contractor.
7. Consider complications
You want the project to go smoothly, and so does the contractor. But things happen. Unexpected obstructions, uneven ground, or a rogue electric wire. Any unforeseen issues could alter the deadline through no fault of the contractor. Keep in mind there may be complications during the project.
Building a fence is one project that’s better left to the professionals. Hiring the right contractor doesn’t have to be stressful if you abide by the seven above-mentioned considerations.