The right fence can impact your property in major ways. It raises the overall value of your property and also adds security, boundaries, and more. Once you realize that, you know just how important it is to choose the right fence. However, there’s one thing you ought to do first. That’s to choose the right fence installer. If you live in St. Louis, Missouri, how do you do that?
Choosing the Right Fence Installer
Selecting the right fence installer in St. Louis, Missouri, is a crucial decision that can impact both your property’s security and its curb appeal. With the region’s varying weather conditions and specific municipal regulations, finding a qualified professional requires careful consideration. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Before considering any fence contractor in St. Louis, ensure they meet basic professional requirements:
Check for a valid business license from the City of St. Louis or St. Louis County
Confirm they carry general liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage)
Verify worker’s compensation insurance for their employees
Look for membership in professional organizations like the American Fence Association
Research Local Experience
St. Louis presents unique challenges for fence installation, including:
Clay-heavy soils that can affect post stability
Extreme temperature fluctuations between seasons
Local historic district regulations
Specific neighborhood covenant restrictions
Choose contractors with extensive experience in the St. Louis metropolitan area who understand these regional factors and have adapted their installation techniques accordingly.
Check Permits and Regulations Knowledge
A professional fence installer should be well-versed in:
St. Louis City and County building codes
Local zoning requirements
Utility line marking procedures through Missouri One Call
Historic district preservation guidelines where applicable
HOA compliance requirements
Evaluate Past Work and References
Quality assessment steps include:
Request a portfolio of completed projects in the St. Louis area
Ask for at least three local references from projects completed within the past year
Visit previous installation sites if possible
Check online reviews on platforms like:
Better Business Bureau
Google Business
Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
Nextdoor
Compare Multiple Quotes
When gathering estimates:
Obtain at least three written quotes
Ensure each quote includes:
Material specifications and grades
Post-depth and spacing details
Hardware quality information
Timeline for completion
Warranty terms
Payment schedule
Cleanup and disposal plans
Assess Communication and Professionalism
Pay attention to how potential contractors:
Respond to initial inquiries
Arrive on time for appointments
Present detailed, written proposals
Answer questions about materials and techniques
Explain potential challenges and solutions
Provide clear timeline expectations
Understanding Warranties and Guarantees
Quality fence installers should offer:
Minimum one-year workmanship warranty
Manufacturer warranties on materials
Written guarantee for post-stability
Clear terms for addressing any installation issues
Documented maintenance recommendations
Consider Material Expertise
Choose contractors experienced with your preferred fencing material:
Wood (cedar, treated pine)
Vinyl
Aluminum
Wrought iron
Chain link
Composite materials
Verify Project Management Capabilities
Ensure the installer can:
Provide a detailed project timeline
Coordinate utility marking
Handle permit applications
Manage material deliveries
Supervise installation crews
Address unexpected challenges
Red Flags to Watch For
Avoid contractors who:
Pressure you for immediate decisions
Request full payment upfront
Provide verbal-only quotes
Lack local references
Cannot provide proof of insurance
Have unresolved BBB complaints
Offer significantly lower prices without explanation
Final Selection Tips
Before making your final decision:
Get everything in writing
Review contract details thoroughly
Confirm start and completion dates
Understand payment terms
Verify all warranty information
Ensure cleanup requirements are specified
Confirm post-installation support procedures
By following these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to select a reliable fence installer in St. Louis, MO, who can deliver quality work while complying with local requirements. Remember that investing time in proper contractor selection can save significant money and stress in the long run.
To guarantee the best results, you can rely on us at GreenScapeSTL, as we are the leading residential landscape company in St. Louis. Please contact us to learn more about us and what we can offer for you and your property.