Once you understand your fence project and have a better sense of the potential cost, the next question is often just as important:
Who do I trust to do the work?
Choosing a fence contractor is about more than comparing the final number on two quotes. The materials being used, the installation methods, the accuracy of the measurements, the way unexpected site conditions are handled, and the communication you receive throughout the project can all make a meaningful difference.
A fence is a significant investment in your property. Choosing the right company means looking at both the finished product and the experience of getting there.
Not All Fence Quotes Are Created Equal
When you receive more than one quote for a fence project, it can be tempting to compare the bottom-line numbers and assume each company is offering essentially the same thing. That isn’t always the case.
Differences in material quality, installation methods, site preparation, hardware, concrete, structural requirements and what is included in the scope of work can all affect the price.
A lower quote isn’t necessarily a poor choice, and a higher quote isn’t automatically a better one. The important question is whether you understand what each company is proposing and what is included in the price.
Taking the time to compare the details—not just the totals—can help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises once the project is underway.
Look Beyond the Price: What Are You Actually Getting?
Two fences can look very similar on paper—or even from across the street—while being quite different in the materials and installation behind them.
When comparing quotes, it’s worth asking a few more questions about what you’re actually getting for your investment. Material specifications, installation practices and the way a contractor plans for the conditions of your property can all affect how your fence performs over time.
Material Quality Matters
The quality and specifications of fencing materials can vary considerably, even when the finished products appear similar. When comparing quotes, it can be helpful to understand exactly what materials are being proposed.
For example, metal fencing can vary in the gauge of steel and the quality of its protective powder coating. Vinyl products can also vary in quality and construction, while the type of concrete and other installation materials used can affect how a fence is secured.
These details may not be immediately visible in a quote, so don’t be afraid to ask a contractor about the materials they use, why they recommend them and how those choices may affect the durability and performance of your fence.
Installation Knowledge and Experience Matter
A successful fence installation isn’t only about putting posts in the ground. Properties can present challenges such as slopes, changes in elevation, bedrock, tree roots and other site conditions that require experience and problem-solving.
An experienced contractor should be able to assess these conditions and recommend an appropriate installation approach. For example, encountering bedrock may require a different method of securing a post, while changes in grade may call for specialized structural solutions, such as steel ties, depending on the property.
When comparing contractors, ask how they approach challenging site conditions and what happens if something unexpected is discovered during installation. Understanding how those situations will be assessed, communicated and priced can be just as important as the original quote.
Accurate Measurements and Detailed Quotes
An accurate fence quote starts with understanding the property and the complete scope of the project. Fence length is important, but corners, gates, changes in elevation, access, existing structures and other site conditions can all affect the materials and labour required.
A thorough on-site assessment allows a contractor to take detailed measurements, identify potential challenges and discuss your priorities before preparing the quote. This provides a more complete picture than relying on approximate measurements or simply multiplying an estimated fence length by a per-foot price.
When comparing quotes, look beyond the total and make sure you understand what has been measured, what work is included and whether important site conditions have been considered.
The People Behind the Project Matter Too
The materials and installation matter, but so does the experience of working with the people behind the project.
Good communication can make a significant difference throughout a fence installation. Will your calls and questions be answered? Will you know what to expect next? Will someone explain your options clearly? And if an unexpected issue arises, will you understand what it means for your project before decisions are made?
These may seem like small things when you’re first comparing quotes, but they can have a big impact on how confident and informed you feel from the first consultation through to the completed fence.
Why Homeowners Choose Preferred Choice Fencing
Preferred Choice Fencing grew from Stacey and Tracy’s own experience as homeowners looking for fencing solutions for their property. That experience gave them a first-hand understanding of how important product choice, clear communication and reliable service can be when you’re making a significant investment in your home.
Today, Preferred Choice Fencing is a locally owned and operated, women-owned business serving Nanaimo and surrounding Mid-Vancouver Island communities. Stacey and Tracy have built the company around many of the things they valued as customers themselves: answering questions, communicating clearly, providing thoughtful recommendations and helping homeowners understand their options before making a decision.
The products and projects have evolved over the years, but that customer-first approach continues to shape how Preferred Choice Fencing works with homeowners today.
What Our Customers Say
We can tell you what matters to us, but the experiences of our customers tell the story better.
Preferred Choice Fencing has earned a 4.9-star Google rating from more than 60 customer reviews. Again and again, customers mention many of the same things we believe are important: clear communication, helpful advice, quality workmanship and feeling well looked after throughout their project.
For us, those reviews are about more than a star rating. They reflect the kind of experience we want homeowners to have—from the first questions and consultation through to the final installation.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Fence Contractor
Before choosing a fencing company, take the time to ask questions and make sure you understand what you’re comparing.
A few good questions to start with are:
- What materials and product specifications are included in my quote?
- How will you assess my property and take measurements?
- How do you handle slopes, bedrock or other unexpected site conditions?
- What is included in the quoted price, and what could result in additional costs?
- Who will I communicate with before and during the installation?
- What warranty or workmanship support is provided after the project is complete?
A good contractor should be comfortable answering your questions and explaining their recommendations in a way that helps you understand your options.
Choose the Company, Not Just the Fence
The fence you choose matters, but so does the company you trust to install it.
Look beyond the final number on the quote. Consider the quality of the materials, the care taken in assessing your property, the contractor’s experience, how clearly your questions are answered and how comfortable you feel working with the people involved.
The right choice is ultimately the company that gives you confidence in both the fence being built and the experience you’ll have getting there.
Want to dig a little deeper before deciding? Explore our 20 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fence Contractor