So, you're ready to put up a new fence or fix an old one. Great! But before you just pick the first name you see online, let's talk about how to find a good fence contractor here in Missoula. It's not always easy to tell the good ones from the not-so-good ones, and you don't want to end up with a shoddy job or a headache.
Questions to Ask Any Fence Contractor
When you're talking to potential contractors, don't be shy. You're hiring them, so you've got every right to ask tough questions. Here's what I'd want to know if I were in your shoes:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They should have a current Montana contractor's license and general liability insurance. Ask for proof.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. Someone who's been around for a while probably knows what they're doing and isn't going to disappear halfway through the job.
- Can you provide references? And don't just take their word for it. Call those references. Ask about communication, timeliness, quality of work, and if they'd hire them again.
- What's your warranty on labor and materials? A good contractor will stand behind their work. Know what's covered and for how long.
- What's your typical timeline for a project like mine? Understand when they can start and how long they expect it to take. Delays happen, but they should be upfront about it.
- How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes you dig down and hit an old irrigation line or a massive rock. What's their process for dealing with that and how might it affect the cost or schedule?
- Who will be doing the actual work? Is it their employees or subcontractors? If it's subs, are they also licensed and insured?
What to Look For in a Quote
You'll get quotes that vary wildly, and the cheapest isn't always the best. A good quote isn't just a number; it's detailed. Here's what you should expect:
- Clear Scope of Work: It should spell out exactly what they're doing. Is it just installation, or does it include old fence removal and disposal? What type of fence, what materials (specific wood, gauge of wire, type of posts)?
- Material Breakdown: It should list the specific materials, quantities, and their costs. This helps you compare apples to apples.
- Labor Costs: How are they charging for labor? Is it a flat rate or hourly?
- Permits: Who's responsible for pulling any necessary permits with the city or county? Make sure this is clear. For instance, if you're building a tall privacy fence in a residential area like the Rattlesnake, you'll definitely need a permit.
- Payment Schedule: A reasonable down payment (usually 10-30%) is fine, but don't pay for the whole thing upfront. Payments should be tied to project milestones.
- Total Cost: Obviously, the final price. Make sure there are no hidden fees.
Red Flags You Can't Ignore
Some things should make you walk away, no matter how good the price seems:
- No License or Insurance: I already said it, but it bears repeating. If they can't prove it, don't hire them.
- Demanding Full Payment Upfront: This is a huge red flag. A reputable contractor won't ask for all the money before they've even started.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: