Starting a fencing company requires a considerable amount of capital. You must acquire equipment and materials and get the appropriate permits, licenses, and insurance. Determining whether the fence contractor will pull local permits for you would be best. Some contractors will take care of this step, while others require you.
Experience
If you have a good network of friends and family members, asking about their experiences with an Austin fence company is a great idea. This way, you can hear firsthand how a contractor has performed and what they have to offer. You will want to look for a company that is licensed and insured. This will protect you from liability issues and damages during the fencing project. Professional companies also know how to navigate local building codes and ordinances. They can also help you find the best materials for your property and ensure that everything is built correctly. They will be able to suggest which materials are durable and long-lasting. They can even recommend a stain or paint that will keep your fence looking new for years.
Reputation
It’s a fact that reputation is everything when finding a business that can handle your fencing needs. The reputation of a fence company is often based on its customer reviews, case studies and testimonials. A great way to understand the company’s reputation is to visit its website and review the reviews. If there are many complaints, that could be a red flag. You should also ensure they have a physical address and are properly licensed. You mustn’t work with an unlicensed contractor, as they can cause damage and are not liable for any problems arising during the project. This includes any damages to landscaping, sprinkler systems or existing fences.
Warranty
If you are looking for a new fence, soliciting contractor estimates can be more time-consuming than obtaining quotes for specialized indoor work. Homeowners can use various methods to evaluate potential fencing companies, including looking for professional associations they belong to and their Better Business Bureau rating. However, stick with a licensed fence contractor in Austin for your protection, as they are accountable. They typically carry insurance coverage, including liability and worker’s compensation and should have no pending lawsuits against them.
Ensure the company can provide phone and email customer support if you have questions. Also, ask about the company’s history of staying within their estimate and whether they do any follow-up inspections with utilities to ensure the fence will not interfere with their services.
Pricing
Please pay attention to their physical locations once you’ve narrowed your list of potential fencing contractors. A professional team should have a well-organized and neatly-stocked facility and vehicles, while one that appears run-down or out of space is a sign that they don’t take their business seriously. Ask the companies quoting on your project if they’ll walk your property and take measurements to ensure an accurate quote. Also, ask what materials will be used and if any additional features or add-ons will be included. Finally, check out the fence company’s reputation online. Most established fence contractors have a website allowing you to see reviews.
Customer Service
The customer service for fencing companies should be on point, professional and personable. Soliciting estimates for specialized indoor work such as basement finishing or kitchen remodels can be lengthy. Still, with fence installation, representatives are generally adaptable and eager to show up for estimates at your property. Local companies should be familiar with zoning and setback regulations that may affect fence construction on your property. They should also be ready to discuss legal hindrances such as easements and buried utilities. Getting these issues resolved before starting work will minimize future headaches for homeowners.
