Buying a house is an enormous investment, and you should be vigilant throughout the deal. After you’ve bought your dream home, it’s time to go for the auxiliary purchases. One of them should be to install a sturdy fence around the house. Fences provide additional security to your home and its surroundings and can help you in keeping your children and pets safe inside the enclosure.
The decision to add a fence to your house involves finalizing several factors. These important factors are who will do the job for you, and if you should opt for multiple vendors. Paying a high price doesn’t always ensure high-quality service, and hence, you should always check for options within your desired estimates.
Your property is of utmost importance to you and it is only natural that you protect and beautify it. Along with securing your property, installing a fence will also add to the overall architectural design of your house. Choosing the right fence contractor for this job is vital to ensure that the materials and supplies used in fencing the property are durable. Also, this will help you avoid complications from arising at any point in the future.
Here is a list of important tips to help you find the right fence contractor for your house:
1. Determine the Purpose of the Fence
Before you hire a fencing contractor, you must decide on the purpose of your house’s fence. Whether it’s for privacy, to keep your children and pets in, or just to beautify the area, the reasons can help you decide on the budget for the project, and the type of fencing materials you can opt for. For instance, a metal fence is the right choice for people who prioritize their house’s security over decoration.
Additionally, you need to determine the location of the fence, i.e. if you want the fence in the front or the back yard. Make sure the construction is in keeping with the city/town and state rules for residents. Inform your neighbors that you will be installing a fence. You can even ask them for references of fence contractors they may have hired in the past.
2. Get Estimates from Multiple Contractors
Choosing the right installer for your fence can be a tough job, if you are getting it done for the first time. Remember, not all contractors are as efficient and eligible as they promise to be. Unfortunately, most people don’t have the time to research suitable contractors.
You don’t need to hire the first fencing contractor you find. Ideally, ask for estimates from at least three contractors, so that you have a price range to compare. Set your judging parameters in place. The written estimate given by each contractor should include the cost of labor and materials, the activities he/she is responsible for, and a tentative job completion date.
Once you have these details with you, it’s time to compare. When comparing contractors, it is better to consider their past work, quality of fencing materials used, and the total cost of the job. Try to negotiate on the price, if you think it is beyond your budget. At the same time, be wary of contractors who quote an unusually low estimate as they may be using substandard quality of materials.
3. Mode of Payment
When you meet prospective contractors, ask what their company policy regarding the payment of work is. Some companies require customers to make full payment upfront, and others are comfortable with partial payment before the construction work begins, or at the end of the job. Numerous fencing contractors Oak Hills provide flexible payment options that are suitable for their customers.
Some legitimate businesses also offer their customers cash discounts. Do not confuse it with a professional asking you to pay cash only. You need to raise the red flag, if at any time, a contractor compels you to pay cash.
4. Check for References
Along with price quotations, ask potential contractors for a list of references. A reputable fencing contractor should have no problem providing the details of his/her previous clients that you can contact.
Contact a few of their past clients for feedback, and ask if they were completely satisfied with the contractor’s commitment to the work. If possible, schedule a meeting with them to see their fences in person. This will help you get a fair idea of the quality of the contractor’s workmanship.
Enquire about contractor’s license from all potential contractors and check for the validity. You can ask them to inspect the working conditions around your house. This will help you know more about their working style and expertise. While on your property, seasoned contractors will check the gradient of the slope of your yard and obstructions, like trees and lamp posts that can affect the fencing work.
5. Trust the Written Word (Only)
Once you have decided on the contractor you want to hire, ask him/her to provide a written contract that specifies the details of the agreement. Closely analyze the clauses mentioned in it. The details should include the materials being used, the total cost of the job, estimated start and completion dates, contractor’s liability towards the project, the mode of payment, and insurance claim for fence damage. You can ask a law professional to check the credibility of the contract, if possible. Clarify all your queries before signing the deal. Make sure to save a copy of the contract with yourself.
To Summarize
Fencing is one way to beautify and secure your property. Choosing the right fence installer can help you achieve both purposes. Hiring the right fence contractor to install your house fence is imperative, so that you don’t have to spend again on reinstalling/repairing the fence soon after the fence is installed.
