No two fence contractors are alike. That’s why it’s crucially important to do your homework to ensure the fence you’ve always dreamed of is completed on time and on budget
If you’re a handyperson, In-Line Fence would be happy to supply all of the materials you need to create a beautiful fence, but if you’re like most people in Southwestern Ontario, having a fence installed properly, securely, on time and on budget will require outside help. An experienced fence contractor is likely best for you.
Before you say “yes” to the first business name that appears in an online search, keep in mind these practical points.
Fence Permits and Fence Business Licenses
It’s certainly not the most exciting part of the new-fence process, but it is the most important. To ensure that you meet your municipal by-laws and cover yourself for liability, ask your contractor a number of questions before agreeing to anything.
Does your fence require a permit? Unless your fence will be surrounding a pool, a permit is often not required, but it is always safest to ask.
Ask your contractor if they are licensed to install, have insurance to cover a wide range of liabilities and understand the local by-laws for fences in your municipality.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of seemingly archaic rules out there, but each rule is there for a reason, so assume that bad things could happen, and be prepared.
Do Your Fence Contractor Homework
Look at fences in your neighbourhood that are similar to what you would like. Take photos and ask the property owners all of your questions, such as who installed it, how much it cost, how long it took to install and anything else that you feel is needed to know.
When you approach contractors, ask how much experience they have with the type of fence you have chosen. Also, ask if they will be doing the work themselves, or will they be using subcontractors. You would be surprised at how many fence contractors sub their work out to other fence installers, and don’t do the work themselves.
Compare Fence Estimates
The most important part in choosing a fence contractor is making sure you are comparing apples to apples. No quote can be deemed accurate without an in-person visit by the person doing the job. This helps to ensure there’s no ambiguity or lost-in-translation issues that can creep into a complex project.
What is covered in the quote and what is not? Who pays for changes? Who disposes of waste? When will the installation begin? How long will it take? How many people will do the work? What is the payment schedule?
Pay close special attention to the minor differences in the quotes. Compare the material quality and add up the ‘hidden fees’ that some contractors do not include – disposal, equipment rental, etc.
Make sure that all of these details (and more) are physically in the quote, and that you sign it and receive a copy. This ensures that contractors stick with promises within their control.
FYI: In-Line Fence offers no-obligation quotes for any project, big or small.
Fence Warranty
Every reputable contractor will have a warranty on their services and products. Make sure you get this written in the quote or handed to you separately. In the case of In-Line Fence, your project comes with a two-year warranty which is valid for normal usage and limitations.
Find a Fence Company in Ontario You Can Trust
This one is a little more difficult to gauge. How can you be sure that someone is trustworthy? Usually, it comes down to a gut feeling. If something feels wrong, then it’s best to choose someone else.
I’ll share with you how I do choose a business. I frequently go with those who have all of the qualities I look for in a friend: honest, upfront, confident, friendly and understanding. Combined with a history of happy customers, I’ve rarely chosen incorrectly.
In-Line Fence is owned and operated by myself, owner John Kardux. I’m passionate about installing the right fence, on time and on budget. I’d love to meet with you to discuss your dream fence in person. Set up a day and time that works best for you by calling my cell phone at 1-226-228-3757, or send me an email at jkardux@in-linefence.ca.
Thank you for the opportunity to work on your project!