Fred Court- 201 223 6966, he's a landscape woodworker.

If you're looking for someone to build your fence, there are a few things you may want to know before hiring. Our fencing expert, Richard Novigrod, who has ten years experience, says this may be the most important part of the entire fence building process.

"Typically, at least for us, for wood fences it's hard to warranty wood, because it's a natural product. Typically, we warranty our labor for one year. The owner should anticipate that not every single board on a privacy fence is going be perfect. It's an outdoor fence, and when we put up the fence, obviously, we look for good material as we're putting it up. We won't put up something that looks in very bad shape. I would say get at least two estimates. Ask for references," Novigrod says.

As consumers, you need to know exactly what will take place from beginning to finish.

"It's just like any other service industry; you want to make sure you're dealing with someone that's reputable. Another thing is, if the company is requiring any kind of deposit, make an agreement that you will give them the deposit the day they begin work, instead of the day you make the decision to buy a fence. That way they show up with materials and they're there to start work. Then, you feel comfortable enough to give them some money. I've known a lot of people in the fence business; they take a deposit. Then, they use that money to purchase materials on the job that the person has been waiting two weeks for," Novigrod says.

According to the website, Homesource.thebbb.org, another good tip is to find out if the fence contractor you're looking at is bonded and licensed. Either the Department of Labor and Industries or the Construction Contractors Board can assist you in getting this information.

You will also want to check and see if the fence contractor is part of a local trade association. When contractors are part of organizations like the Better Business Bureau it shows they care about what customers have to say.

You will want to stay away from salespersons and contractors who ask for big lumps of money upfront; however, obtaining a deposit is a common practice among fencing companies.

You can get estimates from fence contractors, as well. Try to get at least three. You don't want to go with the cheapest company. You want to check and see how much the company is charging you versus what the materials are worth. Inside each estimate you will find the costs and labor totals. Inside the estimate should also be a statement of what will take place and the length of time being allotted for work.

Ask for customers' phone numbers. You can also visit some of the homes the company has built fences for. Check out the quality of the work.

Take your time when looking for the right fence contractor. Your fence can last a long time if you get it right from the beginning.

Here is a link that might be useful: Fence contractors

I have used Fred before as well and he does real good work.
If you're looking for tips on how you could DIY if interested.

Here is a link that might be useful: Fence repair