7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fence Contractor
A fence is a major investment — $3,000 to $15,000+ for most residential projects. Hiring the wrong contractor can mean shoddy work, surprise costs, or a fence that fails in a few years. Here are the 7 questions every homeowner should ask before signing a contract.
1. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in Washington State?
Why it matters: Washington State requires all contractors to be registered with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Without this, you have zero legal protection if something goes wrong.
Red flag: They can't provide a license number or say "we don't need one."
2. Can I see proof of liability insurance and workers' comp?
Why it matters: If an uninsured worker gets hurt on your property, YOU could be liable. General liability insurance protects your property; workers' comp protects the crew.
Red flag: They promise to "send it later" but never do.
3. What materials do you use, and where do you source them?
Why it matters: Not all cedar is equal. Ask about the grade, species (Western Red Cedar is best for PNW), and whether posts are pressure-treated or steel. Quality materials = longer-lasting fence.
Red flag: They're vague about material specs or can't name their supplier.
4. Will you pull the necessary permits?
Why it matters: Many Washington cities require permits for fences over a certain height. A professional contractor handles this for you. Unpermitted fences can result in fines or forced removal.
Red flag: They say permits aren't needed without checking your city's requirements.
5. What is your timeline, and do you guarantee the schedule?
Why it matters: PNW weather can cause delays, but a good contractor gives you a realistic timeline and communicates proactively about changes.
Red flag: They can't commit to any timeline or have no scheduling system.
6. What does your warranty cover?
Why it matters: Get the warranty in writing. Know exactly what's covered (labor, materials, or both) and for how long. Ask what happens if a post leans or a board warps within the warranty period.
Red flag: No written warranty, or it only covers materials (not their workmanship).
7. Can I see photos and references from recent local projects?
Why it matters: Real photos of completed work in your area tell you more than any sales pitch. References let you verify quality, communication, and professionalism.
Red flag: They only have stock photos or can't provide local references.
Bonus: What a Great Contractor Looks Like
Licensed, bonded & insured — and happy to prove it
Provides a detailed written quote with material specs
Has real photos and reviews from local customers
Communicates proactively about timeline and changes
Offers a written workmanship warranty (1+ years)
Handles permits and utility locates for you
Shows up when they say they will
Ready to Work With a Contractor You Can Trust?
We check every box above — and we're happy to answer all 7 questions before we start. Get a free, no-pressure estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a fence contractor is legitimate?
Check for a valid Washington State contractor license (verify at lni.wa.gov), proof of liability insurance and workers' comp, a physical business address, and online reviews with real photos of completed work.
Should I get multiple fence quotes?
Yes — we recommend getting 2–3 quotes. Compare not just price, but materials used, warranty terms, timeline, and whether they pull permits. The cheapest quote isn't always the best value.
What warranty should a good fence contractor offer?
A reputable contractor should offer at minimum a 1-year workmanship warranty. Many quality contractors offer 2–5 year labor warranties. Material warranties vary: vinyl often has lifetime warranties, cedar typically 5–10 years.