subject: Getting The Job Done - How To Get The Best Fencing Advice And Quote [print this page] Buying a fence and putting it up creates a lot of practical considerations. You need a price, and you may also need some advice about construction, design, and your choices of fence. It's best to get some help from professional fencing tradespeople, so you can check out all your options.
Fencing and site issues
There's a range of possible issues in putting up a new fence:
Dividing fences and neighbors: It's best for you and the neighbors to be on the same page about the fencing situation. You're normally expected to split costs 50-50 but disputes do arise, either about the amount being spent or the type of fence. Under the Dividing Fences Acts in most states there are basic procedures which include some possibilities for dispute resolution and mediation.
Site access: Installing a fence requires good working access to the site for fencing equipment and the space to erect the fence safely.
Trees: The common practice of planting trees on fence lines can create real problems when trying to put up a new fence. Damage to the trees can do damage to your wallet, so some thought is required when confronted with this situation.
The property line: Building on someone else's property is usually caused by the fact that the old property boundaries were incorrectly measured when the old fence was put up. If there's any doubt whatever about the property boundaries, a surveyor will be able to help.
What you need- Getting advice
You will need an on site consultation with your fencing contractor, so it's a good move to make sure the contractor's fully aware of the issues and any problems about the type of fencing materials. In all cases they'll be able to provide a wide range of options.
For example:
The fence needs replacement, but an alternative is a repair job, if the fence is stable and safe. This alternative minimizes disruption to the existing arrangement and is usually more palatable to neighbors.
Partial replacement of the broken down areas of old fence with the same type of fence. This is another objection-remover, and doesn't get the same level of resistance.
There are many possible problem solvers, and experienced fencing contractors will know them all. A phone call to a contractor is a lot cheaper than a court case, and the solutions in these cases will usually satisfy both parties.
Most importantly the contractor will also be able to assess the situation onsite thoroughly. This means your advice will be based on a full understanding of the situation, and a considered approach to dealing with all the issues, including trees, property lines and access.
Getting a quote
The best possible approach to getting a quote is to start with the best fencing suppliers in your area. This is a quote for top quality fencing, and it gives you a realistic pricing bandwidth for comparison. You'll find that the top contractors are very competitive, so you can select your contractor knowing you're definitely getting the best fence and the best service.
