How to find a good fencing company

Looking to find a good fencing company? Whether you’re trying to repair an existing fence or you’re starting from scratch, finding a good fencing company can be simple and straightforward if you use our guide.

How can I find a good fencing company?

1. Ask your neighbours, friends and family
2. Search online directories like Checkatrade
3. Ask other tradespeople
4. Browse social media

Finding a good fencing company could be as simple as asking people you know. If you’re planning on doing work in your garden it’s always good to keep the peace with your neighbours, so this is a great opportunity to ask if they can recommend a fencing contractor.

However, a better way to see recommendations from your neighbours is to search on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are checked before becoming members and are recommended due to their professionalism and quality of work. Searching for the best local fence installer is as simple as typing in your postcode.

Tradespeople often build up a network of other trade contacts that they work with on jobs. If you are in contact with another tradesperson, ask them if they can recommend a good fencing company.

Social media is handy for so many things, including scoping out good tradespeople. Using social media, you can search for local businesses, and check out photos and reviews of their work (you can also do this on Checkatrade too, and be safe in the knowledge that we’ve checked the reviews are real).

What to look for in a good fencing company

If you’re not into DIY, here are some of our top tips for hiring the best fence installer:

• Look for recommendations or reviews online
• Choose a fencing specialist rather than a handyperson
• Check their qualifications
• Pick someone with a good amount of industry experience
• Ask to see examples of their work
• Make sure they can visit you to create a quote or estimate

When it’s not your specialist subject, it can be hard to know what sets a good contractor apart from the rest.

In terms of qualifications, a good fencing contractor should have a Level 1 Award in Construction Skills as a minimum, and potentially a Level 2 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery, or have completed an apprenticeship.

Fencing jobs might seem simple but they can vary a lot, which is why it is important to get a specialist. Fencing contractors may specialise in erecting industrial security barriers or agricultural fencing for livestock, to more traditional trellis work around private gardens.

Asking to see examples of their work is one of the ways to give yourself peace of mind and help you to choose a good fencing company.

Getting quotes for fencing

Before you start making your enquiries, make sure you are clear on what it is you want. Search online to collect images to show potential tradespeople or write down or draw a description of what you have in mind. Any good fencing company will want to make sure they can meet your expectations.

Do your research, use our search tool and make a shortlist of your favourites. Once you have your list you can contact them and have a detailed conversation with them.

We recommend getting at least three quotes. Finding a fencing company can be as simple as using our request a quote service. Fill in our form with the details of your job and we’ll send it to three local tradespeople on your behalf.

Questions to ask a fencing contractor

• How long have you been a fencer?
• What types of fencing do you specialise in?
• Can I see examples of your work?
• What materials will you be using?
• Can you explain to me what options are available for the type of fence I require and the pros and cons of these options?
• How long will the fencing last?
• How should my fencing be maintained during its lifetime, do you offer maintenance plans?
• Who (you or your neighbours) is responsible for maintaining which sections of the fence?
• Will you come to my property to provide a quote?
• Who will be working on the job, Is it just you or do you have other people on your team e.g. apprentices or day labourers?
• Can I see, or do you have insurance?
• How long before you can start?
• How long will the work take?
• What costs are involved and what are your rates?
• How do you take payment?

There are quite a few questions here, but a good fencing company should be willing and able to answer all of these with ease.

How much will a good fence installer cost?

If we look at average material costs then you’ll be looking at £36.50 per panel + £22.50 per post without labour. By using a fencing company, the cost will include the price of the panels themselves plus extra materials and labour.

For more detailed information on pricing see our fence panel installation cost guide.