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Let me guess. You're looking to get a new fence. You've hopped online, and now you're staring at a dozen different companies, all with shiny photos and big promises. They all look the same, right? So how do you pick the one that won't leave you with a wonky, rotting mess and a hole in your wallet?
I've been in this game a long time. I've fixed more botched fence jobs than I can count. And I can tell you, the difference between a dream install and a nightmare comes down to the contractor you choose.
So, let's skip the sales pitch. I'm going to give you the real, inside scoop on what to look for. These are the five things that scream "this is a good Fence Contractor."
1. They Actually Listen to You (This is Huge)
You'd be amazed how many blokes show up, barely look at your garden, and just tell you what you're getting. A good Fence Contractor does the opposite. They start by asking questions.
"What's really bothering you about your current setup?"
"What's your budget? Be straight with me, it saves us both time."
"Got kids or pets I need to think about with the design?"
If they're doing all the talking and not hearing a word you say, that's your first red flag. You want someone who's building your vision, not just slapping up the same fence they put up down the road.
2. Their Quote Isn't the Cheapest (Thank Goodness)
I know it's tempting to go for the lowest price. But in fencing, the cheapest quote is almost always a trap.
Here’s what you're really paying for with a proper Fence Contractor:
Decent Wood: They're not using the warped, knotty stuff that's been sat in the rain for months.
Enough Concrete: They don't skimp on post mix. A wobbly post is a failing fence, and it's the first corner a cowboy will cut.
A Proper Team: They pay their lads a fair wage, which means you get experienced craftsmen, not day-labourers who just want to finish by 3 pm.
You're not just buying a fence. You're buying peace of mind. And that's worth paying for.
3. They're Proud to Show You Their Work
A trustworthy Fence Contractor has nothing to hide. They should be able to:
Show you a portfolio of photos from actual jobs.
Point you to genuine reviews from people in your area.
Maybe even let you drive by a recent job to see it for yourself.
If they get shifty when you ask for examples, thank them for their time and show them the door.
4. The Quote is So Clear, Your Gran Could Understand It
No vague numbers scribbled on a bit of paper. A pro will give you a detailed, written quote that spells out:
The exact type of panels and posts.
The cost for everything, line by line.
A solid start date and how long it'll take.
The final price, with no hidden extras.
This isn't just paperwork; it's your insurance policy. It means you both know exactly what's what.
5. They Guarantee Their Work (And Actually Mean It)
What happens if a gate sags in a year? Or a post feels loose after a storm?
A dodgy builder will be long gone. A good Fence Contractor will have a clear guarantee in writing. They'll be there to put it right, simple as that. This is the ultimate sign of someone who takes pride in what they do.
Your Garden Deserves Better Than a Gamble
Putting up a fence is a big investment. Don't hand your hard-earned cash over to the first person with a van and a power drill.
Do your homework. Look for these five things. It might take a little longer, but when you're relaxing in your perfectly private garden for years to come, you'll be glad you did.
A Few Questions You're Probably Asking
"How many quotes should I actually get?"
Get at least three. It lets you compare not just the price, but how they communicate and the detail they go into.
"What's a massive warning sign in a quote?"
If it's just a single number at the bottom of a page with no breakdown, run a mile. You need the details.
"Are they insured? Do I need to ask?"
ALWAYS ask for proof of insurance. If one of their lads trips and breaks his leg on your property, you do not want to be liable. A real pro will have his papers ready to show you.
"My garden isn't flat. Is that a problem?"
Not for a good contractor. They'll know exactly how to handle a slope, either by 'stepping' the panels or racking them to follow the ground. They should explain this to you without making it sound like a huge, expensive drama.
"How long should it take to put up a fence?"
For your average garden, a decent team will have it done in 2-3 days. They're quick when they know what they're doing.
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