Evaluating an Estimate

This is an extremely important aspect of successfully hiring a Contractor. Let’s break it down into sections and address each one.

The Scope of Work:
This defines what the contractor is doing for you. Make sure it covers all the things you want completed. It should also spell out any preparation work, protection of surrounding areas, clean up, etc.

Contractor Representations
Here I’m just concerned with the contractor’s willingness to put in writing any of the verbal representations he or she has made to you to get the job. If they have made oral commitments but won't put them in writing, that’s a REJECT.

Price
Look for a contract price that is well broken down, clear and easily understood. If it is unclear then they have not taken the time to understand your requirements, the scope of work, or the job. I would not necessarily make the selection only on price.

Incentives
It is extremely important that the contractor NOT offer you a discount or cash incentives for immediately signing the contract.

Contract Payment Terms
Try to be invoiced by mail after the work is completed, but expect most to want payment right after work is done. If they want cash, that’s not a great sign. If materials were needed before work can start (e.g., roofer or painter), they want an initial payment for materials. Try to minimize this amount as much as you can. I don't recommend you ever pay more than 33% up front and ONLY agree to that with a very reputable company.

Bob Formisano
AIA is an architect and builder
Home Repair Guide
About.com

Tips from Angie

Angies List founder, Angie Hicks, offered some tips recently on an ABC station on hiring a contractor to do work on your home. According to polls taken by Angie’s List members, homeowners are spending more on home improvement than in recent years.

To help with the cost of the job she suggests getting several estimates and negotiating with the contractors to see who can offer the best pri

e. Of course, it’s not all about the price, the quality of the work is just as important. To find someone who will do a good job, Angie recommends using a contracto

cr you found on a referral, whether through friends or family or via a service like Angies List.

Double check that the contractor is licensed and insured and ask for references of other work they’ve done. Before you pay any money or have them start on a job get a contract with all of the work spelled out. Another good reason to research a contractor is that you don’t want to have them start on a project and then have them go out of business on you part way through.
Ben Edwards, the founder of Money Smart Life

Questions Before You Buy

Making an informed decision prior to purchasing any product can definitely save you time, money and stress in the future. Some purchases are easy, and can be made with little thought of consequences. But buying a fence can take some planning, to be sure that you are not disappointed with the results. Here are simple steps to follow to ensure you are "in the know":

1. Ask questions. The contractor with the lowest price may have slow or unresponsive service, low grade materials, or young inexperienced crews. Remember, the lower the price-the more questions you should ask. Find out why.

2. Determine your needs. What functions do you want your fence to perform?

- Provide security
- Contain children or pets
- Enclose a swimming pool
- Beautify your property
- Screen an unsightly view
- Prevent theft or loss
- Reduce traffic noise
- Provide privacy from street or neighbors

Sometimes in the buying process, you can lose focus on the main reason you needed the fence in the first place. It is important to establish the main reason and try to stick with it. In the end, you have to like what the fence is going to do for you.

3. Know the materials. Not all materials are the same. Western Red Cedar, for example, is available in various grades. A lower grade will have more knots and the knots can be much larger. This is problematic because knots can fall out when the boards dry out, and these fences do not have a good appearance. Typically, lesser grades of cedar are available at a lower cost, but contractors who use them will not specify the grade on the contract.

Chain link, ornamental systems, pvc, composite and railings all have significant differences in quality, value and price. Be sure your written estimate includes specifications of the materials that your contractor intends to use. Brochures and website links can provide you with valuable information as well. A reputable AFA contractor will be happy to leave samples of the material so that you can compare it against the finished product. Please ask for material samples before you decide.

4. Learn more about the company. It is easy to assume that most companies are similar because the advertising, websites and reviews look the same. But you can do some simple and free checking to find out more about the company you hire. The Better Business Bureau is a reputable resource for consumers, and Angie's List can offer helpful consumer reviews. It is important to know if the company has a current license, is bonded and insured to protect yourself against potential pitfalls.

5. Buy from a reputable company. Fence contractors may come and go, but a professional fence company knows that future business depends on customer satisfaction. A successful company listens to the homeowners needs and requests, and responds accordingly.

For any estimate you look at, the details of materials, installation process, warranty and license must be in writing. If these details are vague or nonexistent, keep looking. Don't kick yourself later for not checking.

Thanks for your interest!

FenceManDan@gmail.com
email me any time for a Free Estimate

Fence Company Comparisons

Before you hire a contractor, it is important that you find out a few things:

• Do they have a current State Contractor license?

This is important because contractors must prove to the State of MN that they have enough insurance, and it means they are serious about being in this industry. You can weed out the non-licensed guys right away. A link to look up a residential contractor is provided in the right side bar of this page (under the heading of "License Look-Up Link"). You may be surprised to see how many fence companies are not licensed.

CLICK HERE to look up a contractor

• Warranty on workmanship?

Anybody can warranty materials for 5, 10, 20 years, but the labor is what costs money. A board replacement or a gate adjustment are minor material costs, but the labor can be $200.00 or more. A one year labor warranty is the same as nothing. It says to the customer that if a board falls off next summer, the new board is free; but the trip charge is $200.00 (does that sound like a good warranty?) Better contractors who build durable projects, will warranty everything for 5 or more years because they know that they will last.

• Small down payment?

Most consumer advocacy groups (BBB, Angie's List) advise paying 30% or less as a down payment. Be cautious of contractors who want more than that. Remember, this down payment reflects your commitment to the job, but the contractor hasn't performed any work yet. You have nothing to show for your commitment.

If you follow these steps, you may find that choosing your next contractor is quite easy.
Here is a link to the MN Dept of Labor and Industry to check out any contractor that you may be considering to hire: click here

Thanks for reading!

FenceManDan@gmail.com
651-203-5678
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