Here are the steps you should use to choose a Tampa fencing contractor? Do your research! Your search for financing may be separate from your contractor.

1. Is the fence contractor licensed to work in Florida and Tampa?

The State of Florida no longer requires fence contractors to be licensed. Also, due to Florida State Bill 735 the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County can longer require that a fence contractor obtain a license.

2. Is the fence contractor insured, having both liability and workman’s compensation?

Choose a fence contractor or fencing company who is insured. Uninsured fence contractors could hold you liable for any accidents and/or medical bills arising from an injury.

3. What type of fence/materials does the fence contractor specialize in?

Is it wood, aluminum, vinyl, wrought iron, chain link, composite material, or something else? Give priority to a fence company that specializes in the type of fence you desire.

Does the fence contractor provide free estimates?

You should not be paying for an estimate. You should pass on any contractor that does not provide free estimates.

4. How is the online reputation and experience of your prospective fence company?

Look them up at the Yelp, Better Business Bureau, Google, Facebook and Angie’s List to check their customer reviews and testimonials, reputation and level of experience. If you see something that worries you, try a different fencing contractor. Did the contractor damage any landscaping?

5. Is there pending litigation against the fencing company?

Avoid any fence company with pending litigation until the issue is settled.

6. Does the fence contractor contact the utility companies to verify the location of buried lines?

Before digging holes your contractor should contact Sunshine 811 to make sure that underground gas, water, and power lines are not affected.

7. Does the fence company check the survey records to determine the precise property lines?

Before building a fence, you, your neighbors and your fence contractor need to know the exact property lines. Verify if you or your fence contractor will be responsible for contacting a surveyor.

8. How much does the fencing contractor estimate the job will cost?

Get a written estimate and be sure of that shows a total price including: materials, labor, and so on.

The estimated costs should be broken down into separate totals for:

• Basic materials
• Labor (including cleanup)
• Any additional fees
• True description of any additional service charges
• The deposit due and when
• The balance due and when

9. When will payment be required? How much of a deposit is due, and when?

A deposit for materials will typically be required and can be calculated as a percentage of the entire cost of the project. Do not make the final payment until you are 100% satisfied with the job done.

10. Will the contractor provide a firm written contract and schedule?

A written agreement ultimately protects both you as a homeowner and your contractor as a working professional. The contract should contain:

• The full schedule of fees
• Proposed start date
• Estimated completion date
• Estimated costs

Diagrams and design specifications are a good way to make sure that everyone is on the same page before work begins.

11. What do the manufacturer’s warranty and the installation warranties cover and how long are they?

Fencing manufacturers offer a materials or product guarantee. This covers faulty materials, among other things. The installation should also have a warranty. The length differs with each contractor.

12. How long is the quote or estimate guaranteed?

Typically a fence contractor will guarantee their quote for a time between 30 to 90 days. However, since fencing material prices tend to change frequently, fencing companies may stipulate that the estimate be recalculated after 30 days, in case of increased cost.

Knowing what to look for when hiring a Tampa fencing contractor is essential. When you know and ask the right questions when you get quotes, you ensure that you get the right fence for your needs, as well as the best price, and service.