Fencing 

What to look for when selecting an ethical Fence Company:

1. Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number and a business license.

2. Look for a company that will let you meet them at their place of business.

3. Look for a company that does not ask for excessive deposits. No more than 50% down.

4. Look for a company with a proven track record. Check to see if they have a web site.

5. Look for a company that will pull the required permits. If they ask you to do it, it could be a warning sign that they're not licensed and insured. You do not need a permit if it's just fence repair or their replacing a gate.

6. Look for a company that will show you proof of insurance. General Liability and Workers' Compensation. If they use subcontractors have them show you proof of Workers' Compensation and General Liability insurance. If the company or subcontractor has only a Workers' Compensation Exemption, you may be liable for anyone injured on your property. Pay close attention to their limits of General Liability and the expiration date.

7. Look for a company that will give you a detailed written proposal on company letterhead and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures. Make sure the price is all inclusive.

8. Carefully read, understand, and ask questions regarding any fence warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it. Check to see if there is a warranty on labor (1 year is standard).

9. Unless you are buying materials, tax should be included in the price. In Florida tax is paid by the contractor on the materials. You do not pay tax on the labor or profit.

10. Look for a company with a proven track record that allows you to call references to verify their work.

11. Professionalism is very important; look at how the company represents itself during your initial meeting.

12. Look for a company that explains clearly to you the difference between Vinyl, Aluminum and Wood fencing as to price, durability and care. Wood does not hold up well in Florida weather. The higher cost of vinyl and aluminum will pay for itself fairly quicker than most people realize.

13. There are companies that will lower their bid price by making the panels of fencing longer on vinyl fencing. They will make them 8 feet instead of 6 feet. The longer panels lower their price because they utilize fewer posts, less labor and less concrete. Be aware of this, we recommend no more than 6 foot panels on Vinyl Privacy and Semi-Privacy so it reduces the risk the panel will sag especially in the Florida Climate).

Questions to ask when selecting a company in this industry:

1. What kind of debris will be left on my property, and what kind of clean-up procedures does your company follow?

2. How long have you been in business under this name in Florida?

3. Will you give me referrals with phone numbers?

4. Will you show me proof of insurance?

5. What type of Manufacturer Warranty do I receive? Materials and Labor?

6. Do you subcontract out your work, or will you bring only employees to my job site?

7. Will you clearly explain to me the different options of fencing available to me?

8. Do I need a permit? Will you pull my permit?

Barfield Fence & Wall

2266 Clark St.
Apopka, FL 32703
Phone (321) 396-0001

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