1. Communication
Be precise, so that the contractor understands exactly what you want done. Effective communication enables contractors to quote on performing the same work with the same materials.

2. Competitive Bids
If possible, find two or three fencing contractors to quote on your project. This allows you to choose the one that offers you the best value. This is not necessarily the contractor with the lowest price. A company’s reputation, workmanship and warranty should be considered along with the price. Be wary if one price is significantly lower than the others. Try to determine why the cost difference if so great. Remember, you generally get what you pay for.

3. Insurance
The State of Massachusetts requires contractors to have worker’s compensation, liability, and property damage insurance. Some contractors try to lower their costs by not carrying insurance. This may place you at a legal risk, so make sure your fencing contractor has all of the necessary insurance.

4. References
Ask for references from your contractors, along with recent installation sites. Inspect them to get a sense of the contractor’s workmanship. Quality may be the main reason one contractor’s price is higher (or lower) than the rest.

5. Contract
Get the contract in writing! It should include a full description of the job, a payment schedule, and an estimated time of completion.

6. Project Changes
If your project should change in any form, it is important to note this in the contract. This allows for revised prices and time tables to be set. What seems to be a minor alteration may cause the contractor to incur significant unexpected costs and delays. Try to keep changes to a minimum for this reason.

We hope that these suggestions make choosing your fencing contractor a little easier. Remember, if you have any other questions concerning a contractor, you can contact your local Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau or the American Fence Association for additional information.