How to Get Fence Quotes: What to Ask & Red Flags
The smart way to compare contractors and avoid getting ripped off.
💡 The Golden Rule
Always get at least 3 quotes. This lets you compare prices, gauge professionalism, and identify outliers. The cheapest bid isn't always the best — and the most expensive isn't always the most qualified.
What a Good Quote Should Include
A professional fence estimate should be detailed and in writing. Look for:
- ✅ Total linear footage — measured on-site, not estimated from a photo
- ✅ Material specifications — type, grade, brand (e.g., "6ft pressure-treated pine, dog-ear style")
- ✅ Post details — material, depth, spacing, concrete footings
- ✅ Gate count and sizes — including hardware
- ✅ Labor cost broken out — separate from materials
- ✅ Old fence removal — included or extra? How much?
- ✅ Permit costs — who pulls the permit and what does it cost?
- ✅ Timeline — start date, expected completion
- ✅ Warranty — on both materials and workmanship
- ✅ Payment schedule — deposit, progress, final payment
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
"Are you licensed and insured?"
Non-negotiable. Ask for proof. Verify the license number with your state's licensing board.
"Who does the actual work — your crew or subcontractors?"
In-house crews are generally more consistent. Subcontracted work varies in quality.
"What happens if you hit rock, roots, or utilities?"
This is where surprise costs come from. Get their policy in writing before signing.
"Do you handle the permit?"
Most professional contractors handle this. If they say "you don't need one," that's a red flag — they should know local codes.
"Can I see photos of recent projects and talk to references?"
Good contractors are proud of their work and happy to share. Reluctance is a warning sign.
"What's your warranty?"
Standard is 1-2 years on workmanship. Some offer 5+ years. Material warranties are separate (from the manufacturer).
"What's your payment schedule?"
Standard: 30-50% deposit, balance on completion. Never pay 100% upfront. Ever.
🚩 Red Flags
- 🚩 No written estimate — verbal quotes are worthless and lead to disputes
- 🚩 Demands full payment upfront — legitimate contractors don't need all your money before starting
- 🚩 No license or insurance proof — you're liable if a worker gets hurt on your property
- 🚩 Significantly cheaper than everyone else — they're cutting corners somewhere (materials, footings, labor)
- 🚩 Pressures you to decide immediately — "this price is only good today" is a sales tactic, not a real deadline
- 🚩 Can't provide references — either they're new (risky) or their past clients aren't happy
- 🚩 Wants to skip the permit — this creates legal and resale problems for you, not them
- 🚩 Cash only, no contract — no paper trail means no recourse if things go wrong
How to Compare Bids
When you have 3+ quotes, compare apples to apples:
- Same materials: Make sure everyone is quoting the same fence type, height, and material grade.
- Same scope: Does each quote include the same number of gates? Old fence removal? Permits?
- Post depth and spacing: Cheaper bids sometimes use shallower posts or wider spacing (weaker fence).
- Concrete footings: Every post should be set in concrete. If a bid skips this, reject it.
- Warranty differences: A slightly more expensive bid with a 5-year warranty may beat a cheap bid with no warranty.
Start Getting Quotes Today
Browse our directory of licensed fence contractors and request free estimates.
Find Contractors Near YouRelated guides: Cost Guide · Permit Guide · Installation Timeline