You’ve finally got around to the long-awaited task of installing a fence on your property. Now all you need is a professional to evaluate your property and install it for you!
But which fencing company do you go for? Are local contractors ideal because they understand the local area or are the big-time companies best?
While it’s tempting to simply pick the first company you see, it’s important to step back and find a reputable contractor. After all, you don’t want a contractor who cuts corners and leaves you an ugly, lopsided fence that won’t deter burglars!
The good news is there are ways to ensure you find a reputable, professional fencing contractor like Timber Ridge Fence Company. Let’s go through a few of them:
Check Google Thoroughly and Use Different Keywords
Did you know that different keywords inputted into Google can give you vastly different results? For example, typing in “fencing contractor” versus “professional fencing contractor near me” may give different contractors who match your criteria.
If you’re relying on Google or another search engine to find a fencing installation service, make sure to input different terms and phrases to get a more complete list of fencing contractors. Some keywords you type include:
- Fencing installation
- Professional fencing contractor
- Fence installer near me
- Pool fencing installation (or another specialty)
In the end, you’ll be provided with more choices and can pick the best one for your project.
Search Online For Reviews (Good And Bad)
You go on any fencing company website and they’re sure to have the best testimonials. However, did you know these could be completely fabricated? Fake reviews are used by shady companies to boost their ratings and lure in more customers. And writing one is as simple as creating a fake email address and typing up some content.
That’s why you need to look beyond the website and search online for more reviews online. Some websites we typically advise to check to include:
- Google reviews
- Facebook ratings
- Yelp
- Yahoo! Answers
- Home Advisor and so on
You’ll receive an unbiased perspective of the contractor, not just ones they’ve cherry-picked to show off their services. Just look at the reviews as a whole, so if there are nine outstanding reviews and only one bad one, you can still take a chance on the company.
Understand Exactly What Your Fencing Project Entails
If you don’t understand the scope of your project, you’re taking a chance on any contractor you hire. Who’s to say your contractor won’t give you a bad estimate and use cheap materials to finish the job quickly? You simply won’t know any better if they do!
Write out your fencing project in detail and understand what’s required to complete it. This way, when you compare quotes from different contractors, you can be confident that their price reflects their work quality. You can also spot any unnecessary work that’s been added to the final cost and negotiate accordingly.
Trust Your Gut
Let’s say you’ve narrowed down your options and you’re interviewing three different contractors. Listen to what they say, but also trust your gut feeling when something feels off.
If your contractor is doing the following, you should shut them down:
- Unnecessarily pushing expensive materials
- Not providing proof of insurance
- Asking for up front payment
- Not answering your questions
- Not breaking down their quote into clear costs
- Failing to provide a clear time frame for the project
You don’t want to be left guessing when it comes to YOUR fencing installation. You’re the boss, so if something looks shady or suspicious, take your business elsewhere.
Communication is always key in any contract, so make sure to always keep your lines open and ask questions until you are satisfied with the contractor’s answers.
Get A Referral (If Possible)
Now there’s nothing wrong with the opinions of online reviewers. In many ways, they’re a more trusted source than family since they have no agenda. However, in most scenarios (provided your referral isn’t trying to rip you off) it’s best to get a recommendation from a family member, friend, or colleague.
First, your family member can provide deeper insights i.e. how the contractor handles difficult situations or how timely their work is. Second, they know your preferences, what you like and what you don’t like. Lastly, they’ll have your best interests in mind so they’ll want the contractor to do a good job and not cut corners.
Overall, being referred to a contractor makes them more accountable as they know if their work is subpar, there are likely to be repercussions. Furthermore, in smaller communities where word of mouth is king, bad reviews can quickly kill business.
Check What Kind Of Warranty The Contractor Offers
When it comes to fencing installation, you always want your money’s worth.
Ask if the products used come with a manufacturer’s warranty, and also be sure to inquire about the contractor’s own specific warranties. If you’re unhappy with their installation, they should take responsibility and repair any issues.
A product warranty will cover any defects in the materials used to build your fence. This is especially important in fences as some materials may deteriorate in certain climates or become damaged. Poorer materials also break easier and don’t last nearly as long.
A labor warranty will cover any damages caused by the installation, whilst a warranty on the entire project will cover both materials and labor. Be sure to check what each contractor offers, as some may offer a better overall warranty than others.
Conclusion
Finding a reputable fence installation service isn’t difficult, but it’s an overlooked process that requires some thought. You don’t want to be left with a subpar fence that will require immediate repairs and a hefty bill, so make sure to learn more about fencing options to help you pick the right fencing contractor for you!
All in all, you want to make sure that you ask the right questions, check out customer reviews, listen to your gut, get a referral, and look for a good product and work warranty. Good luck!
