How to Find a Trusted Fence Company (And Avoid Fence Contractor Scams)

Hiring a fence contractor should feel exciting. You’re investing in privacy, security, curb appeal, and property value.

But hiring the wrong fence company?

That can cost you thousands — twice.

This week, we’re starting another full fence rebuild for a homeowner who already paid someone else to build it once. The previous contractor:

• Took a deposit
• Pulled no fence permit
• Pulled no electrical permit
• Used subpar materials
• Cut structural corners
• Misrepresented the type of lumber used

Now the fence must be torn down and rebuilt correctly.

If you’re searching for a trusted fence company near me, here’s exactly how to protect yourself.

Step 1: Verify They’re a Legitimate, Established Fence Company

Before signing a contract, confirm the company actually exists beyond a Facebook post or yard sign.

A professional fencing contractor should have:

• A verified Google Business Profile
• A professional website
• Consistent business name and branding
• A local service presence
• A visible track record of completed projects

If you can’t find them on Google, that’s a major red flag.

Most reputable contractors today have years of online presence. No digital footprint often means no accountability.

Step 2: Read Google Reviews Carefully

When searching for the best fence company in your area, reviews matter.

Some review platforms charge businesses for visibility, including:

Better Business Bureau
Angi
Yelp

These platforms can be helpful, but advertising can influence placement.

Google Reviews tend to give a clearer long-term reputation picture.

What to Look For:

• 100+ reviews over multiple years
• Recent reviews (within the last 3–6 months)
• Detailed comments
• Customer photos
• Professional responses from the owner

Five reviews posted last week is not the same as 200 reviews over five years.

Step 3: Confirm Fence Permits & Electrical Permits

Many cities require a fence permit, especially for:

• 8-foot privacy fences
• Fences near pools
• Rear-entry properties
• Automatic gates
• Any electrical components

For example, cities like:

• Frisco
• McKinney
• Little Elm

… frequently require permits before construction begins.

If a contractor says,

“You don’t need a permit.”

Verify that directly with the city yourself.

The homeowner we’re helping now had no permits pulled. That can lead to:

• City fines
• Failed inspections
• Insurance complications
• Resale problems

Permits protect you — not just the contractor.

Step 4: Ask Specific Questions About Fence Materials

This is where many shortcuts happen.

If you’re getting quotes for:

• Board-on-board cedar fence
• Western Red Cedar fence
• Japanese cedar fence
• Black steel fence
• Chain-link fence
• Pressure-treated pine fence

Ask detailed questions:

• What grade of cedar is being used?
• Are posts set 36 inches deep in concrete?
• Are metal posts being used?
• What size rails?
• Is there a kickboard (rot board)?
• Is the lumber pre-stained or field-stained?

We’ve rebuilt fences where:

• Posts were set 12–18 inches deep
• No concrete was used
• “Cedar” wasn’t actually cedar
• Hardware rusted within months

If one quote is dramatically cheaper, ask why.

Savings usually come from materials or labor shortcuts.

Step 5: Protect Yourself From Fence Deposit Scams

Deposits are normal. They cover materials and scheduling.

But before paying:

• Get a detailed written contract
• Confirm proof of insurance
• Verify business registration
• Ensure scope of work is clearly outlined
• Confirm timeline expectations

Be cautious if someone pressures you with:

“I can start tomorrow if you pay today.”

Reputable companies don’t rush homeowners into decisions.

Step 6: Review Their Portfolio

A trusted fence company should show:

• Before-and-after photos
• Projects similar to yours
• Work in your neighborhood
• Warranty information

Established contractors are proud to show their work history.

Step 7: Get a Written Fence Warranty

A verbal promise doesn’t protect you.

Your fence contractor should provide:

• Written workmanship warranty
• Clear material specifications
• Defined coverage terms
• Warranty duration in writing

If a contractor disappears mid-project, a handshake warranty won’t help.

The Real Cost of Hiring the Wrong Fence Contractor

The homeowner we’re helping now is paying twice:

1. Once for a fence that was poorly built
2. Again to have it torn down and rebuilt correctly

That means:

• Additional labor
• Additional materials
• Additional permits
• Additional stress

The cheapest fence quote is often the most expensive long term.

Final Advice: How to Choose the Best Fence Company Near You

When searching for:

• Fence company near me
• Cedar fence installation
• Fence replacement contractor
• Licensed fence company
• Fence repair near me

Slow down. Verify everything. Ask questions.

A professionally built fence should last years — not months.

The right contractor will:

• Pull proper permits
• Use quality materials
• Follow city code
• Stand behind their work
• Protect your investment



If this blog prevents even one homeowner from going through what tomorrow’s customer experienced, it’s worth it.