Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Fencing Contractor in Pennsylvania

Hiring a fencing contractor is a big decision — you're trusting someone to secure your property, boost your home's curb appeal, and ensure a long-lasting installation.

In Pennsylvania, where weather conditions and property laws can vary from town to town, asking the right questions before signing a contract can save you money, stress, and future repairs.

Here are the top 10 questions every Pennsylvania homeowner should ask before hiring a fencing contractor — whether you're in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, or anywhere in the Lehigh Valley.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Pennsylvania?

Always ask for proof of:

• State licensing (if required for contractors in your township)

• Liability insurance (to protect your property)

• Workers' comp insurance (to protect against jobsite injuries)

🛑 Red flag: If they “don’t need insurance” or work under someone else’s name — walk away.

2. How Long Have You Been Installing Fences in This Area?

Pennsylvania’s seasons and soil types (especially in areas like the Lehigh Valley) require localized expertise.

✅ A great contractor will:

• Know local zoning codes

• Be familiar with property slopes, drainage, and freeze/thaw cycles

• Have a portfolio of local work

3. Do You Handle Permits and Property Line Checks?

Most towns in PA require permits for new fence installation — and the homeowner is ultimately responsible.

Ask:

• Will the contractor pull the permit or help you do it?

• Do they verify your property lines or require a survey?

• Will they call PA One Call to mark underground utilities?

4. What Types of Fencing Do You Specialize In?

Not every contractor installs every material. Ask which fences they have experience with:

• Vinyl

• Wood

• Aluminum

• Chain Link

• Custom decorative or pool fences

For example, Ekren Fence specializes in low-maintenance aluminum and vinyl fencing, which are ideal for Pennsylvania weather.

5. What’s Included in the Quote — and What’s Not?

Compare apples to apples by asking:

• Are teardown/removal of old fence included?

• Are gates and hardware priced separately?

• Is concrete used to secure posts?

• Any additional labor or cleanup fees?

Always get a detailed written estimate, not just a lump sum.

6. How Long Will the Project Take — Start to Finish?

Clarify:

• Start date (some contractors book weeks out)

• Expected installation timeline

• Delays due to weather or permits

Bonus: Ask how they handle rain days and material backorders.

7. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

There are two types:

• Material warranty (from the manufacturer — often 10–30 years)

• Labor/workmanship warranty (from the contractor — typically 1–5 years)

Make sure both are in writing and ask:

• Who to contact if there’s an issue?

• Is warranty transferable if you sell the home?

8. Do You Subcontract the Work or Use In-House Crews?

Subcontracting isn’t necessarily bad — but it can lead to inconsistent quality.

Ask:

• Will your team be doing the work?

• Are your crews trained in-house?

• Who will supervise the installation?

✅ A hands-on, in-house team means more control and accountability.

9. Can I See Photos or Visit a Recent Job Site?

Any reputable contractor should be proud to show their work. Ask for:

• A digital photo gallery

• Google reviews with customer photos

• Possibly visit a nearby install (with permission)

Look for clean lines, level posts, consistent spacing, and neat jobsite cleanup.

10. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?

Good contractors are proactive about issues — not reactive.

Ask:

• What happens if the fence leans, sags, or warps?

• How do you handle post-installation problems?

• Is there a process for requesting repairs under warranty?

You want to hear: “We’ll take care of it — no questions asked.”

✅ Final Thoughts

Hiring the right fencing contractor in Pennsylvania isn’t just about price — it’s about trust, communication, and craftsmanship.

At Ekren Fence, we’ve served homeowners across the Lehigh Valley for over 22 years. We stand behind every fence we install with transparent pricing, clear communication, and local expertise.

💬 Ready to Ask Us These Questions?

We’d love to answer them — and show you why so many families in Allentown, Bethlehem, and beyond trust Ekren Fence.

📞 Call (610) 393-4080 or 📅 Request Your Free Estimate Online