What are the Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Fence Contractor?

1. Skipping Research and Online Reviews

One of the most common mistakes is hiring a contractor without taking time to review their history, customer feedback, or qualifications.

If you skip this step, you increase the risk of hiring someone who might overpromise and underdeliver. Look them up on Google, Yelp, or local Facebook groups. You want to see:

• Consistent positive reviews from real customers
  
  
• Clear photos of past fencing projects
  
  
• No patterns of complaints about delays, pricing, or workmanship
  
  

Freedom Fence is proud to maintain five star reviews across major platforms thanks to consistent communication, quality craftsmanship, and on time project delivery.

Pro Tip: Learn more from our guide on How to Choose the Right Fence Contractor.

2. Hiring Contractors Without Proper Licenses or Insurance

Some contractors offer lower prices because they skip legal requirements. But hiring someone who is not licensed or insured puts you at serious risk.

Why this matters:

• You could be held financially responsible if they damage nearby property
  
  
• If someone gets injured on your site, you might cover medical bills
  
  
• Poor work may leave you with no legal protection or warranty
  
  

Freedom Fence is fully licensed and insured, and we help guide homeowners through any necessary local permitting to keep everything above board.

Tip: Ask to see their license and insurance certificate. Verify these with your local permitting office or city hall.

Read more: Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Fence Contractor

3. Not Demanding a Written Agreement

Relying on a verbal agreement leaves too much to chance. A proper fence installation requires a written agreement that protects both you and the contractor.

Make sure your contract includes:

• Exact scope of the work
  
  
• Start and completion dates
  
  
• Full breakdown of materials and labor
  
  
• Warranty terms
  
  
• Payment schedule with milestones
  
  

Freedom Fence provides detailed quotes and agreements so you know exactly what to expect before a single post is set.

4. Making a Decision Based Only on the Price

Price matters but choosing a contractor just because they offer the lowest quote often leads to regret. There is always a reason a quote comes in much lower than others and it is usually because something is being left out.

Common problems with low bids:

• Cheap materials that do not hold up to weather
  
  
• Poor installation methods that lead to leaning or shifting
  
  
• Lack of warranty or post installation support
  
  

Freedom Fence never cuts corners. We source durable materials made for Florida's humid climate and back every job with workmanship guarantees.

For help understanding what goes into a quote, read our article on Understanding Fence Installation Costs.

5. Ignoring Warning Signs During Initial Meetings

Your first meeting with a contractor tells you a lot. If they seem disorganized, give vague answers, or avoid specifics, consider it a red flag.

Watch out for these behaviors:

• They pressure you to pay in full before work begins
  
  
• They avoid giving a written estimate
  
  
• They show up late or skip scheduled consultations
  
  
• They are not transparent about the materials they use
  
  

At Freedom Fence, we prioritize honest conversations, detailed planning, and clear expectations from day one.

Final Thoughts: How to Hire With Confidence

Here is a quick checklist to help you avoid these mistakes:

1. Always research reviews and check the contractor’s reputation
   
   
2. Work only with professionals who are licensed and insured
   
   
3. Get a detailed written contract before work starts
   
   
4. Choose based on long term value not just the lowest price
   
   
5. Pay attention to how the contractor communicates during early conversations
   
   

Taking the time to hire the right fence contractor means fewer problems, better results, and peace of mind that your investment is protected.

Why Homeowners in Sarasota, Florida Trust Freedom Fence

Freedom Fence is committed to delivering fence solutions that last. Whether you are looking for privacy, pool safety, or increased property value, we have the experience and materials to get it done right. Our team services Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Port Charlotte, Lakewood Ranch, and surrounding areas with expert installation and real local support.