Fence quotes vary wildly—sometimes by thousands of dollars for the same job. The difference between a bargain deal and a fair price comes down to asking the right questions upfront. This guide walks you through exactly what to request from contractors so you can compare apples to apples.
Get Detailed Specifications in Writing
Never accept a verbal quote or a vague estimate. Ask every contractor to provide a written quote that includes:
- Linear footage of fencing
- Material type and grade (e.g., pressure-treated pine, cedar, vinyl, composite, ornamental aluminum)
- Height and style of fence panels
- Gate quantity, size, and type
- Concrete depth for posts (typically 2–3 feet)
- Removal of existing fence (if applicable) and disposal fees
- Labor costs broken down separately from materials
- Timeline and project schedule
A solid quote should be 1–2 pages long. If it's one line ("Fence: $5,000"), ask follow-up questions until you have clarity.
Specify Your Site Conditions
Contractors need to understand your property to quote accurately. Discuss these details:
- Slope and terrain: Sloped yards require more post-setting work and waste more material. Contractors may charge 15–25% extra.
- Soil type: Rocky or clay soil costs more to dig. Sandy soil is easier but requires deeper holes.
- Existing structures: Underground utilities, tree roots, or old concrete footings affect labor time significantly.
- Access: Can equipment reach your backyard? Narrow side yards or gated properties often cost 10–20% more due to hand digging.
- Fence condition: If you're replacing an old fence, confirm whether the contractor removes the old one, hauls it away, or leaves that to you.
Ask contractors to visit your property in person rather than quoting over the phone. A site visit typically takes 15–20 minutes and prevents surprise costs later.
Ask About Material Costs and Lifespan
Material choice drives both upfront and long-term expenses. Request quotes for the materials you're considering:
| Material | Typical Cost/Linear Foot | Lifespan | Maintenance | |---|---|---|---| | Pressure-treated wood | $15–$25 | 15–20 years | Annual staining; repairs likely after year 10 | | Cedar | $20–$35 | 15–20 years | Annual sealing recommended; higher upfront cost | | Vinyl | $25–$40 | 20–30+ years | Minimal; occasional cleaning | | Composite | $30–$50 | 25–30 years | Minimal; no staining needed | | Aluminum | $20–$35 | 20–30 years | Minimal; good for ornamental styles |
Compare the total cost-of-ownership, not just the installation price. A $5,000 vinyl fence that lasts 25 years and needs no maintenance may be cheaper than a $3,500 wood fence that needs sealing every two years and replacing in 15 years.
Clarify Labor, Timeline, and Warranties
Ask contractors:
- What's included in labor? Installation, site cleanup, and debris removal should be listed. Some contractors charge extra for concrete removal or topsoil restoration.
- How long will it take? Most residential fence jobs take 3–7 days, depending on length and material. Get a start and completion date in writing.
- What's the warranty? Reputable contractors offer 1–2 year warranties on workmanship and materials. Vinyl and composite manufacturers often provide 10–25 year material warranties separately.
- Payment terms: Avoid paying 100% upfront. Standard practice is 30–50% deposit, 50% upon completion.
Compare At Least Three Quotes
Once you have detailed quotes from three contractors, lay them side by side. Look for:
- Significant price differences (more than 20%) without explanation—ask why.
- Missing line items that other quotes include.
- Contractor licensing and insurance (confirm they're bonded and carry liability coverage).
- Online reviews specific to fence work, not just general remodeling.
Mercoly makes this easier by connecting you with trusted Fencing & Gates providers in your area so you can request and compare multiple quotes simultaneously without hunting down contractors individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I remove my old fence myself to save money? A: Removal saves $500–$1,500 depending on fence length, but DIY disposal requires a truck, time, and landfill fees—often negating savings. It's worth comparing the contractor's removal fee to your actual cost.
Q: What's the best time of year to get a fence quote? A: Fall and winter are slower seasons, so contractors may offer better pricing; spring and summer are peak and more expensive, though you'll get faster completion dates.
Q: Can contractors skip the concrete footings to lower costs? A: Skipping concrete is tempting but leads to post rot and leaning fences within 5–10 years—never worth it. Concrete is one of the most important cost factors for longevity.
Compare detailed quotes from multiple trusted contractors today to find the right fence project fit for your budget and timeline.