Installing a new fence is a significant investment that can greatly enhance the aesthetics, functionality and value of your property when done right. Finding the right fencing contractor is key to getting an affordable, properly installed fence that will last. Use this comprehensive guide to learn how to research, evaluate and select the best fence company in Houston for your project.

Get Recommendations from People You Know

Speaking with neighbors, friends and family members about their experiences is one of the best ways to find a quality fencing contractor:

  • Ask if they were happy with the full job from start to finish and if there were any issues along the way.
  • Inquire about communication, professionalism and timeliness of the contractor.
  • Find out if they would use the same company again for future fencing needs.
  • Look at their fence yourself and see if the construction and materials look solid.
  • Ask for any specifics about the contractor that stood out as benefits or drawbacks.

Any fence companies that come consistently recommended by trustworthy people you know make a good starting list to consider.

Research Fence Companies Online

Expanding your search online helps identify additional local contractors for your list:

  • Search for fencing companies located nearest to you. Focus your results to a reasonable radius.
  • Look at ratings and reviews on Google, Yelp, and other sites. Look for long histories of positive feedback.
  • Check if they have a professional looking website that highlights their fencing experience.
  • Search the Better Business Bureau for any complaints or issues with contractors you are considering. Avoid any with concerning complaint patterns.
  • Visit social media pages to see photos of completed fences to evaluate quality and styles.
  • Look up videos from the contractor showcasing their fence building process. This can give you confidence in their approach.

Interview Fence Contractors

Once you have a list of 3-5 potential fencing companies, schedule in-person consultations with each:

  • Walk them around your property to discuss needs and get their recommendations.
  • Ask about their expertise with different fencing materials like wood, chain link, aluminum etc.
  • Find out how long they have been installing fences, and their typical warranty policy. Look for at least 5+ years experience.
  • Discuss their fence installation process and timeline for a project your size.
  • Be sure communication styles mesh well. Make sure any questions you ask are answered clearly.
  • Get a written estimate on materials, labor, timeline, and total budget.

Meeting face-to-face gives you a good sense of professionalism, knowledge, and responsiveness.

Compare Multiple Bids

After meeting with several contractors, compare the estimates you received:

  • Look at total costs, materials specified, timeframes and warranties side by side.
  • Make sure all bids are based on the same scope of work. Review material types and fence dimensions.
  • Watch for quotes that seem very high or very low compared to others. A middle ground often indicates fair pricing.
  • Don't make your decision based on cost alone. More important is skill and quality materials.
  • Beware contractors that pressure you to sign a contract immediately. Take time to make your decision.

Checking bids against each other helps you gain perspective on reasonable pricing and pick the right fit.

Verify Licensing, Bonding and Insurance

Before signing any contract, ensure the contractor has the proper credentials:

  • Ask to see copies of their general liability insurance and bonding certificates.
  • Verify they are licensed for fence work in your city and state.
  • Look up their license info through your state contractor licensing board website for confirmation.
  • Make sure they will pull all required permits for the project.

This protects you from legal issues down the road. Reputable fencing pros will readily provide documentation that shows they operate a legitimate business.

Call References Provided

Quality contractors will provide you a list of previous customer references. Take time to contact them:

  • Ask how satisfied they were with the full customer experience and final fence product.
  • Inquire about timeliness, professionalism, attention to detail and communication from the contractor.
  • Find out if the job stayed on budget or had any cost surprises pop up mid-project.
  • Ask if they have had any issues with the contractor's workmanship since the fence was installed.
  • Would they hire this company again for future fencing work?

Speaking to past customers gives crucial insights on what to expect working with each contractor.

Confirm Fence Materials and Styles Offered

There are many fencing materials and styles to choose from. Look for detailed expertise in your desired options:

  • Wood privacy fences come in styles like dog ear, shadowbox, board-on-board. Cedar and redwood are common wood types used.
  • Vinyl offers lower maintenance than wood. It resists moisture and insects. Many color and texture options exist.
  • Ornamental steel, aluminum and iron fencing provide security with striking visual appeal.
  • Chain link fences are very affordable but look at options like privacy slats and colored coatings to create a less visible barrier.

Reputable fencing companies are knowledgeable on benefits, costs, and installation best practices for all common fencing materials used in your area.

Understand Fence Installation Process

Professional contractors shouldoutline what the installation entails:

  • Inspecting site and taking precise measurements.
  • Securing required permits.
  • Digging secure post holes and setting posts in concrete.
  • Allowing proper concrete curing time before installing panels.
  • Securing fence panels with proper supports, braces, gates, and hardware.
  • Checking for secure attachment and proper clearance off ground.

Details on their step-by-step process helps confirm work will be done correctly.

Look for Red Flags

When meeting with fence contractors, watch for these red flags:

  • High pressure sales tactics or requests for full payment upfront. Reputable companies take fair deposits.
  • Vague estimates rather than detailed quotes listing materials and project scope.
  • Lack of licensing, insurance, or reluctance to provide references.
  • Limited experience installing the fence type you want.
  • Poor communication and unanswered questions.

A quality fencing contractor won't demonstrate red flags. Always trust your instincts.

Conclusion

Taking time to use these guidelines will enable you to find the ideal fence companies for your specific project. Investing in a new fence is a long-term asset. By partnering with reliable local professionals skilled in proper installation, you will enjoy years of functionality and beauty from your new fencing.