Everything you need to know about hiring professional fence contractors. From licensing verification to pricing, make an informed decision for your fencing project.
The best fence contractors are licensed, insured, and have verifiable experience in your area. They offer written estimates, handle permits, provide warranties on workmanship, and have positive reviews from past customers. Always verify credentials before hiring—a reputable fencing contractor will gladly provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references.
Professional fence contractors should hold appropriate state and local licenses. In NC, verify through the Licensing Board for General Contractors.
Fence contractors must carry liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you from liability if accidents occur on your property.
Look for fence contractors with years of experience, positive reviews, and verifiable references from past customers in your area.
Professional fence contractors provide detailed written contracts specifying materials, timeline, payment terms, and warranty coverage.
Reputable fence contractors stand behind their work with warranties on both workmanship and materials. Look for 2-5 year coverage.
Quality fence contractors know local codes and handle permit applications as part of their service. They ensure your fence is compliant.
Fence contractor licensing varies by state and project size. In North Carolina:
Projects over $30,000
Require NC General Contractor license
Projects under $30,000
May operate with business license only
Verify at NCLBGC
NC Licensing Board for General Contractors
Proper insurance protects you from liability. Require proof of:
General Liability Insurance
Minimum $1 million coverage for property damage
Workers' Compensation
Covers injuries to workers on your property
Current Certificates
Ask for certificates of insurance before work begins
If an uninsured fence contractor damages your property or a worker is injured, you could be held liable. Always verify insurance before work begins and keep copies of certificates.
Specialize in home fencing projects including privacy fences, decorative fencing, pool enclosures, and pet containment.
Handle large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional fencing projects with higher security requirements.
Focus on specific fence types or specialized applications requiring unique expertise.
Specialize in fence repair, maintenance, and restoration rather than new installations.
Materials + labor
$8-15/ft
6' tall, standard
$15-25/ft
Privacy style
$20-35/ft
Decorative
$20-40/ft
Wood, vinyl, aluminum, chain link—each has different price points
Site difficulty, fence height, and gates increase labor time
Rocky soil, slopes, and access issues add cost
Permit fees, insurance, and business overhead
Tip: Get itemized quotes that break down material and labor costs. This helps you compare apples-to-apples between fence contractors.
Search online, ask neighbors for referrals, and check review sites. Create a list of 5-7 potential fence contractors to contact.
Check licensing through your state board. Confirm insurance coverage is current. Look up BBB ratings and reviews.
Get 3-5 written estimates. Ensure they include material specs, timeline, warranty terms, and total price with no hidden fees.
Ask for 3-5 recent references. Call them and ask about quality, timeliness, communication, and whether they'd hire again.
Compare pricing, materials, warranties, and your comfort level with each contractor. Don't automatically choose the cheapest.
Review the contract carefully. Ensure all verbal agreements are in writing. Confirm payment schedule before signing.
Verbal quotes lead to disputes. Always get detailed written estimates.
More than 30-50% upfront is risky. Legitimate contractors don't need full payment before starting.
P.O. boxes only or "will meet at the site" suggests a fly-by-night operation.
"Sign today" or "special price expires tomorrow" are manipulation tactics.
Every established contractor should have local references willing to speak with you.
If one quote is much lower, expect subpar materials, unlicensed workers, or hidden fees.
Refusal or inability to provide insurance certificates puts you at legal risk.
Avoiding permits to save money can result in fines and having to remove your fence.
Look for fence contractors with proper licensing, liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, positive reviews, and verifiable local experience. Ask for references, get written estimates, and confirm they handle permits. The best contractors offer warranties and have been in business for 5+ years.
Fence contractors typically charge $10-40 per linear foot for installation, depending on material and complexity. Wood fencing averages $15-25/ft, vinyl $20-35/ft, and chain link $8-15/ft. Labor usually accounts for 40-60% of total cost. Always get itemized quotes to compare.
Yes, in most states fence contractors need appropriate licensing for projects over a certain value. In North Carolina, contractors working on projects over $30,000 need a General Contractor license. Even for smaller projects, verify the contractor has a valid business license and proper insurance.
Yes, always get 3-5 quotes from different fence contractors. This helps you understand fair market pricing, compare materials and warranties, and find the best value. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than others—this often indicates inferior materials or unlicensed workers.
Most residential fence installations take 1-3 days once work begins. The total timeline from first contact to completion is typically 2-4 weeks, including scheduling, permits (if required), and material ordering. Complex projects or commercial installations may take longer.
Reputable fence contractors offer 2-5 year warranties on workmanship, covering installation defects. Material warranties vary by manufacturer (vinyl often has 20+ year warranties). Get all warranty terms in writing and understand what's covered versus excluded.
NC Fence Co has served southeastern North Carolina for 20+ years. We're fully licensed, insured, and offer a 5-year workmanship warranty. Get your free estimate today and see why we're the trusted choice for fence installation.
Licensed & Insured
5-Year Warranty
4.9 Star Rating
20+ Years Experience