Fence Tips: Hiring a Contractor

• The lowest bid is usually not the best value.
• Contractors who carry insurance and follow safety guidelines generally endure higher job overhead costs. These expenses could be the cause of price variations between contractors who follow the standards versus those who ignore them. Those who do not carry insurance will most likely be cheaper, but you have to ask yourself if hiring them is worth the risk.
• If someone was to be injured while on your property, you the homeowner could be held liable for all costs unless the contractor is covered by workman’s compensation. A contractor should carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers compensation insurance to protect you in the event of an accident. Ask to see the contractors certificates of insurance for both liability and workman’s compensation – it will show you policy dates of coverage.
• Will local codes and ordinances be observed? Are permits needed? Who will arrange for inspections and location of utilities?
• Getting the complete address of the company can be an important factor in determining a company’s time in business. If a post office box is given, ask for a street address.
• How long has the company been in business? References will be helpful to double check. Ask for photos of their work.
• Do they have a website? Does their email address have their domain address?
• Are they members of local professional associations such as the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange?
• Being confident you have selected the right fencing contractor will help assure you that your hard earned money has been wisely spent.