Fence Contractor Summerville can be a big home improvement project that is best left to the professionals. To ensure you hire the right fencing contractor, ask some key questions.
For example, you can determine whether they will handle the permit application process. Ask them about their cleaning policy to ensure they leave your property pristine.
Soliciting estimates can be time-consuming if you hire professionals for specialized indoor work such as basement finishing, kitchen remodels, or tile installation in showers and bathrooms. But since fence work is often exterior, representatives may be more willing to visit your property quickly and work up an estimate or quote while you’re still evaluating options.
Some contractors specialize in fencing, while others handle other outdoor construction projects or have a wide range of experience with general landscaping and outdoor improvements. If you’re looking for a company to build your fence, ask whether they offer a full range of services and their typical project timeline.
A reputable fence contractor will know which materials last well in your climate and how to install them for long-term durability properly. They’ll also understand your local ordinances about setbacks, zoning, and what types of fences are allowed or prohibited.
When a fence company representative visits your property, remember they’re probably going to several addresses that day, so they must be thorough and accurate. Stay out of their way while they inspect your property, and make sure you’ve kept dogs and other animals inside or away from problem areas that need special attention. The rep will likely walk around the yard, checking sheds, tree roots, existing fences, property lines, and connection points with neighboring properties.
The representative will also need to look at any landscape features that could interfere with the installation of your fence, such as retaining walls or boulders. If the property is not completely level, the contractor should discuss adjusting the structure to accommodate the terrain.
Ask the fencing contractor if they provide a warranty on their product and installation. Typically, companies that sell long-term products will include a warranty in their marketing. They should also be able to explain any additional maintenance the particular type of fence will require once installed.
A fence contractor must have several licenses and permits to operate their business. These include a general business license, a contractor’s license, and bond insurance. These documents are required to avoid any legal issues in the future. In addition, a fence contractor must also have professional training and certifications. Those without formal education can attend trade programs to learn about construction techniques and become certified.
Many homeowners don’t realize the contractor they hire to install their fence may not be licensed or insured. While this is not a requirement in all states, it is important to check the credentials of your prospective contractor before hiring them. A lack of proper licensing and insurance can lead to costly lawsuits if an injury or property damage occurs during construction.
Most people can dig a hole and set a fence post, but it is important to have formal training to avoid making mistakes during installation that could cause injuries or damage to property. The American Fence Association offers professional training that is specifically geared towards the installation of fences. This type of training can be completed at a vocational school or online.
It is important to consider the location of your prospective business before obtaining the necessary licenses. Some states require fencing contractors to have a general contractor’s license, while others have more specific requirements. A city’s zoning and construction laws might also influence the need for a permit. In addition to the state license, a fence contractor should have an insurance policy that covers workers’ compensation and general liability.
After obtaining the necessary licenses, a potential fence contractor should form a legal entity, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship, and register for taxes with the IRS. The business should also have a bank account and credit card to manage finances. It is also recommended that it join a professional organization, like the American Fence Association, to show that it is committed to quality work and is serious about its business.
Finding one that offers warranties and guarantees on their work is important when looking for a fence contractor. This ensures you get quality service from a professional committed to completing the job well. It is also a good idea to find out how long the company has been in business and what its reputation is like. You can do this by looking up their name on sites such as the Better Business Bureau and Angi.
Once you’ve narrowed your choices, ask the contractors for references and testimonials from previous customers. This will help you get a feel for the customer satisfaction they provide and whether or not their prices are competitive with other local companies. You should also check whether the company is a member of a professional organization such as the American Fence Association or Merchants Metals Dealer Advantage.
These associations have strict standards and require that the companies adhere to a code of ethics to be members.
If you have a fence installed on your property, take care of any home improvement projects that may need to be completed before the contractor begins working. For example, you should lock away any pets that could escape while the crew is working and remove all toys and tools from areas where they’ll be operating. This will prevent any accidents or damage to your belongings and keep you out of the way so they can get the work done quickly and efficiently.
A fence installation can be time-consuming, so you’ll want to determine how long it will take before your contractor finishes. Ask them to walk your yard and take measurements so they can give you a quote that is as accurate as possible. This will help you plan your life and schedule around the timeline of your fence installation.
Additionally, you should ask if the contractor will secure any necessary permits for your project. This is especially important if you live in an area where it’s required by law to have utility lines located and marked before digging into the ground. You can determine if the contractor will do this by checking their website or contacting them directly.
A fence contractor is someone who, for remuneration, erects, constructs, or rebuilds a fence. This type of professional has experience working with various fencing materials, including wood, vinyl, and metal. In addition, they know local building codes and regulations. They also have the strength and physical stamina to complete heavy work.
Licensed contractors should have insurance that covers workers’ compensation, liability, and property damage. This is especially important when working with a larger company that may have employees who could get hurt on the job.
When choosing a fence contractor, look for one with plenty of customer references. These will give you a good idea of the quality of their work. Also, ask about their payment policy. Any company that requires you to pay cash only should be avoided. This type of company is usually not legitimate and may use shady practices.
Determining whether they take care of the necessary permits for the job is also a good idea. This is particularly true when the installation involves digging into the ground.
Determining if they will contact the appropriate personnel to locate underground utilities is also essential.
Another thing to consider is the equipment and tools they use for the job. Ideally, a fence contractor should have access to high-quality tools and equipment. They should also be able to handle all types of projects, from small jobs to large commercial ones.
Finally, a qualified fence contractor can provide an estimate before starting the project. This will help you determine how much the job will cost and how long it will take to finish. In addition, a reliable fence contractor will be willing to answer any questions about the project.
Finding the right Staten Island fence contractor can be challenging, but it’s worthwhile. A good fence contractor will do a thorough job that increases the value of your home. In addition, they will avoid mistakes that can lead to frequent repairs or replacements.
