Choosing the right fence company for your needs requires more than just a little research and some asking of friends. Ultimately, you want to work with a fence contractor who has experience.
A lot can go wrong during installation, and working with a seasoned professional will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Do Your Research
When choosing a fence company for your needs, taking your time is essential. You’ll want to ensure they’re licensed and insured, have a good reputation, and offer warranties on their work. In addition, you’ll want to ask friends and family for recommendations.
When company representatives visit your property, they should be professional and knowledgeable. They should also be able to provide you with valuable insights and guidance based on your specific requirements. If they seem hesitant or indecisive, it may be time to look for another company.
It’s also essential to determine if the fence builder will obtain permits and who is responsible for calling the utility locator and dealing with legal hindrances like easements or zoning issues. Additionally, you’ll want to know how long it will take them to complete your project. A good builder should give you an accurate timeline.
Check Their License and Insurance
Working with a licensed and insured Austin fence company, you’ve protected should anything go wrong during installation. Check for general liability and worker’s compensation insurance before agreeing to work with a company. This will cover your property if damage occurs and protects you if someone gets hurt on the job.
You also want to ensure they pull the proper permits and contact your utility company to have any underground gas, water, or power lines marked before beginning work. This is an essential behind-the-scenes technical detail that can affect the timeline and quality of your fence. When calling the utility locator, it’s crucial to schedule this service ahead of time to prevent any disruptions or potential hazards during the installation process. This step not only ensures the safety of the workers but also safeguards your property from any unforeseen accidents or damages.
Finally, asking about their contract and payment process would be best. Many companies will provide a written estimate and work with you to establish a payment schedule during installation, which is an excellent way to avoid overpaying. If a company insists on full payment upfront, that should be a red flag.
Look for Reviews and Referrals
Getting referrals from friends, family members, or neighbors can be a great way to find the right fence contractor in Austin for your needs. However, it would be best to read online reviews for these companies to understand better how they work. Make sure to look for the company’s track record of customer satisfaction and the quality of their work. It’s also essential to see if the company takes care of utility lines since digging in the ground can be dangerous and costly if you don’t call 811.
A reputable fencing company will put its customers first. They’ll only sell quality products that last a long time, and they’ll help their clients choose the best type of fence for their property. They’ll also be able to answer client questions quickly and accurately. They’ll even offer a warranty if something goes wrong with their product. This separates them from fly-by-night contractors and “two guys and a truck” companies.
Ask Questions
The answers to these questions will tell you much about the company and how it does business. Consider another option if they cannot answer your questions or give you the necessary information.
Another essential question to ask is what type of materials they use. This will help you decide if they are the right fit for your project. It is also a good idea to determine their clean-up policy. This will ensure that you can handle the mess after they complete the job.
Finally, knowing how long they have been in business is essential. This will give you a good idea about their longevity and financial stability. You don’t want to work with a company that may not be around to provide a warranty on their work.
