Top Questions To Ask Fencing Contractors Before Starting Your Project

3. What's Included in the Fence Installation Cost?

Fence installation cost can vary widely depending on the contractor and material. It's crucial to understand what is—and isn't—included in your quote.

Ask your contractor to break down the estimates:

✔ Material costs 

✔ Labor charges 

✔ Permit fees 

✔ Demolition and removal of old fencing 

✔ Cleanup and sealing/staining (if applicable)

4. How Long Will the Installation Take?

Timelines matter. Whether you're listing your house for sale or simply want your backyard secured ASAP, understanding the project's expected duration is key. Searching "fence installation near me" usually won't give you timelines, as each fencing project is different, so calling ahead and asking about this is critical.

A responsible fencing contractor should give you a realistic schedule and keep you informed if anything changes due to weather or unforeseen delays.

Pro Tip: Always get the timeline in writing.

5. Can You Show Me Photos or References From Similar Projects?

Reputation is everything in this industry. Ask for:

✔ Before-and-after photos 

✔ Online reviews 

✔ Contact information for recent clients 

✔ Certifications or associations (like the American Fence Association)

Want to see what quality craftsmanship looks like? Browse our Project Gallery to explore real examples of our work and get inspired for your own fence design!

6. Do You Handle Permits and HOA Guidelines?

Permit requirements vary by city and county. Your contractor should know the local building codes and be willing to pull any required permits.

If you're part of an HOA, you'll also need to ensure the fence meets their standards. A trustworthy fencing contractor will assist with the paperwork or guide you through the process. Local fence companies are often beneficial here as they tend to have firsthand experience with area-specific regulations and HOA requirements, making the process faster and less stressful.

7. What Warranty or Guarantee Do You Offer?

Any high-quality contractor should back their work with a warranty. Ask:

✔ Does the warranty cover materials, labor, or both? 

✔ What is the length of the warranty? 

✔ What's the process if something goes wrong?

At Palisade Fence Company, we stand behind our craft. We also use high-quality materials like redwood and iron, which are known to last for decades with proper care.

8. What Are Your Payment Terms?

Talk about your budget early on in the process.

Key things to ask:

✔ Is a deposit required? (Usually 10–30% is standard) 

✔ When is the remaining balance due? 

✔ Do you offer financing options?

Understanding the payment schedule ensures there are no surprises when the final bill comes due. It also helps clarify what you're committing to.

9. Will You Be the One Doing the Work?

Sometimes the person bidding on the project isn't the person installing the fence. That's not necessarily a problem, but it's good to know upfront. Ask:

✔ Will the work be performed by in-house crews or subcontractors? 

✔ Who will be the point of contact during installation?

At Palisade Fence Company, our friendly in-house team handles every project professionally, from the first consultation to the final walk-through.

10. How Do You Handle Disputes or Changes Mid-Project?

Good communication is the foundation of a good project. Make sure you know:

✔ What happens if you want to make changes mid-project 

✔ How issues are resolved 

✔ Who to contact with concerns 

A contractor who listens and communicates well is worth their weight in gold.

Bonus: Ask About Cleanup

Fence installation can be messy—digging, concrete mixing, and sawdust are all part of the job. Make sure cleanup is included in your fence installation cost. Ask:

✔ Will old fencing and debris be removed? 

✔ Is cleanup included in the quote? 

✔ How will the site be left at the end of each workday?

Palisade Fence Company takes pride in treating your property with respect. We ensure a clean, safe worksite from start to finish.

Why “Fast, Friendly, Fair” Isn’t Just a Motto

At Palisade Fence Company, our motto—Fast, Friendly, Fair—is more than a slogan. It’s how we run our business every day. We show up when we say we will, communicate clearly, and complete projects on time because we know your time matters. Our team is approachable, professional, and easy to work with, whether you're chatting with us during your estimate or watching the crew bring your fence to life.

And when it comes to fairness, we mean complete transparency from the start. Every quote we provide is all-inclusive, with no hidden fees or confusing fine print. We make sure our pricing is easy to understand and walk you through every detail so you know exactly what to expect. That’s what “Fair” means to us—clear, honest pricing and a process that respects your time, your budget, and your trust.

Choosing the Right Local Fence Companies Starts Here

Whether you're upgrading your backyard with a classic redwood fence or protecting your front yard with vinyl or iron, hiring the right fencing contractors is key to a successful project. Asking these essential questions allows you to compare offers, spot red flags, and understand your investment entirely.

If you've been searching for "fence installation near me", you know how important it is to find a team that's both experienced and local. At Palisade Fence Company, we've built fences for homeowners, realtors, and property managers across the greater Sacramento area—and we bring the same honesty and professionalism to every job.

Ready to Get Started on Your Next Fence Project?

Don't begin your project without asking the right questions first.

📞 Contact Palisade Fence Company today to learn more about how we can help you with any questions you might have before getting started on your next fence project.

📅 Get a free fence quote from one of our expert team members and at the same time, get honest answers on timelines, materials, and fence installation cost.

Let's build something beautiful, functional, and lasting!