The fence contractor you hire determines whether your fence stands straight for 20 years or starts leaning within a few. A quality installer sets posts deep enough, stretches panels level, builds gates that swing smoothly, and meets all local code requirements. A bad one takes shortcuts you will pay to fix later.
This guide walks you through exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and what to ask so you hire with confidence.
Why choosing the right contractor matters
A fence is a significant investment. The average wood privacy fence costs $2,250 to $6,000 for a standard yard. Vinyl runs $3,000 to $8,250. That is a lot of money to trust to someone who does sloppy work or disappears after cashing your check.
The difference between a well-installed fence and a poorly installed one often comes down to things you cannot see. Post depth, concrete footing quality, and proper bracing determine whether your fence handles wind, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles for decades or fails in a few years.
Hiring right the first time saves you the cost and hassle of repairs, replacements, and disputes. See our privacy fence cost guide to understand what your project should cost before you start collecting quotes.
Qualifications to look for
Licensing
Most states require fence contractors to hold a contractor license. The specific type (general contractor, specialty trade, or home improvement) varies by state. Some states exempt projects under a certain dollar amount.
Verify any contractor’s license before hiring. Ask for the license number and check it with your state’s licensing board. A valid license confirms the contractor has met minimum competency requirements and is operating legally. Use our contractor license lookup tool to find your state’s verification portal.
Insurance
Your fence contractor should carry two types of insurance at minimum.
General liability insurance covers property damage during installation. If the crew damages your landscaping, your neighbor’s property, or hits an unmarked utility line, liability insurance pays for it, not you.
Workers’ compensation insurance covers injuries to the crew on your property. Without workers’ comp, you could be liable if a worker is injured while installing your fence.
Ask for certificates of insurance and verify they are current. Do not just take the contractor’s word for it. A legitimate contractor will provide proof without hesitation.
Bonding
A surety bond provides additional financial protection. If the contractor fails to complete the work or does not meet the terms of your contract, the bond gives you a source of compensation.
Not all states require bonding for fence contractors, but working with a bonded contractor adds a layer of security, especially on larger projects.
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Red flags to watch for
Some warning signs should make you walk away from a contractor immediately.
No written estimate
Any contractor who will not provide a detailed written estimate is not worth your time. “I’ll eyeball it and give you a number” is not a quote. It is a setup for surprise charges later.
Huge upfront deposit
A deposit of 10% to 33% to cover materials is reasonable. A demand for 50% or more upfront before any work begins is a red flag. Contractors who require large deposits may be using your money to finish someone else’s project, or they may not be financially stable enough to front materials.
No references
An experienced fence contractor should have recent customers willing to vouch for their work. If a contractor cannot or will not provide references, move on. Online reviews help, but nothing replaces talking to someone whose fence was installed in the last six months.
No license or insurance
This is a dealbreaker. Unlicensed contractors may offer lower prices, but you have no recourse if the work is defective, no proof they meet minimum competency standards, and potential liability exposure if a worker is injured.
Pressure to sign immediately
“This price is only good today” or “I have another job lined up so I need your answer now” are pressure tactics. A fair price is a fair price tomorrow, next week, and next month. Reputable contractors give you time to think and compare.
No mention of permits
If your city requires a fence permit and the contractor never brings it up, they either do not know the local codes (inexperience) or plan to skip the permit (cutting corners). Neither is acceptable. Read our fence permit requirements guide to know what your city requires before you talk to contractors.
Questions to ask before hiring
These questions help you evaluate competence, professionalism, and fit.
Experience and specialization:
- How long have you been installing fences?
- What types of fences do you install most often?
- How many fence projects have you completed in the past year?
- Do you have experience with my chosen material?
Licensing and insurance:
- What is your contractor license number?
- Do you carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance?
- Are you bonded?
Project specifics:
- What post depth and diameter will you use?
- Will posts be set in concrete or compacted gravel?
- How do you handle slopes and grade changes on my property?
- Will you call 811 to mark utility lines before digging?
- Will you pull permits if required?
Business practices:
- Can you provide three references from recent fence projects?
- What is your estimated timeline?
- What does your warranty cover, and for how long?
- What is your payment schedule?
- How do you handle unexpected issues like buried rock or roots?
A good contractor answers these questions directly and without hesitation. Evasive answers or impatience with your questions tells you something about how they will communicate throughout the project.
Getting and comparing quotes
How to get useful quotes
Request quotes from at least three licensed fence contractors. When requesting quotes, provide:
- The approximate length of your fence line
- Your preferred material and height
- The number and type of gates you need
- Whether old fence removal is needed
- Any known terrain challenges (slopes, rocky soil, tree roots)
- Whether you need them to handle the permit
Walk the fence line with each contractor. A contractor who gives you a quote over the phone without seeing your property is guessing, not estimating.
How to compare fairly
Line up the quotes side by side and compare:
| What to compare | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Material specs | Same material grade? Same post diameter? |
| Post depth | Deeper posts mean a more stable fence |
| Post setting method | Concrete footings last longer than gravel |
| Included items | Does the quote include gates, removal, permits, cleanup? |
| Timeline | Unrealistically fast timelines may mean cutting corners |
| Warranty | Longer warranty signals confidence in workmanship |
| Payment terms | Fair terms protect both parties |
The lowest quote is not always the best value. A quote that specifies 4x4 posts set 24 inches deep is cheaper than one using 4x6 posts set 36 inches deep, but the second fence will last years longer.
Understanding a fence estimate
A detailed estimate should break down the project into clear line items. Here is what to look for.
Materials
The estimate should specify the exact material (e.g., “6-foot cedar dog-ear privacy panels” not just “wood fence”). It should include the post material and dimensions, rail specifications, and hardware. For vinyl or composite, it should name the manufacturer and product line.
Labor
Labor should be a separate line item, not hidden in a material markup. Knowing the labor cost helps you understand whether a higher total is due to better materials, higher labor rates, or both.
Post depth and setting method
This is one of the most important details. Posts set in concrete footings at 30 to 36 inches deep provide a stable, long-lasting foundation. Posts set only 18 to 24 inches deep in compacted gravel are cheaper but more likely to shift, lean, or heave in freeze-thaw climates.
Gates
Gate type, size, and hardware should be specified. A walk gate costs $150 to $400. A double drive gate costs $300 to $1,200. Make sure the estimate matches what you discussed.
Site prep and cleanup
Does the estimate include removing the old fence? Clearing brush along the fence line? Hauling away debris? Restoring disturbed landscaping? These details prevent surprise charges on completion day.
Removal of existing fence
Old fence removal costs $3 to $5 per linear foot. Some contractors include it in their bid. Others list it separately. Make sure you know what is included.
Timeline expectations
Understanding the typical timeline helps you plan and holds your contractor accountable.
Before installation:
- Property survey (if needed): 1 to 2 weeks
- Permit approval: 1 to 2 weeks (can overlap with survey)
- Material ordering: 1 to 2 weeks for standard materials, longer for custom orders
- 811 utility marking: 2 to 3 business days
Installation:
- Small project (under 100 feet): 1 day
- Average project (100 to 200 feet): 1 to 2 days
- Large project (200+ feet) or difficult terrain: 2 to 3 days
- Complex projects with multiple gates, slopes, or custom work: 3 to 5 days
Weather delays are normal. A contractor who refuses to work in rain is protecting the quality of your installation, not avoiding work. Wet soil does not hold concrete footings properly.
Your contractor should provide a clear start date and estimated completion date in writing. If they cannot commit to a timeframe, they may be overbooked or disorganized.
Get your fence quotes now
Ready to find the right contractor? Get free, no-obligation quotes from fence professionals in your area. Compare pricing, credentials, and reviews to make a confident choice.
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Contractor licensing by state
Licensing requirements vary by state. Here is a quick overview of the states we serve:
- Utah: S330 Fencing license or B100 General Building through DOPL. Required for projects over $3,000.
- Idaho: Registration with the Idaho Contractors Board. Required for projects over $2,000.
- Colorado: No statewide requirement. Denver and most Front Range cities require local licensing.
- Oregon: CCB license required for all contractors. Includes $20,000 surety bond and $500,000 liability insurance.
- North Carolina: General contractor license through NCLBGC. Required for projects over $30,000.
- Tennessee: Home improvement license through Board for Licensing Contractors. Required for projects over $25,000.
- Florida: DBPR license required (CGC, CBC, or county specialty). One of the strongest licensing systems.
- Arizona: CR-34 Fencing license through the ROC. Separate masonry license for block walls.
- Ohio: No statewide requirement. Local registration varies by city.
Click any state link for detailed licensing information and local contractor recommendations.
Related guides
- Fencing overview for a look at all fence types and costs
- Privacy fence cost guide to budget your project accurately
- Vinyl vs wood fence guide for a material comparison
- Chain link fence guide for the most affordable option
- Fence permit requirements to understand local regulations
- Contractor license lookup to verify credentials
- How to get contractor quotes for general tips on comparing bids
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