Who to Hire to Build a Fence on Your Property

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

When considering who to hire to build a fence, a fence installation company or fence contractor is the ideal choice for most homeowners. These professionals are familiar with local permits, property lines, and building codes, ensuring your fence meets all legal requirements. Hiring a pro helps you avoid common missteps, resulting in a faster, higher-quality installation with guarantees on workmanship and durability.

Benefits of Hiring a Fence Installer to Build a Fence

Hiring a professional fence installer brings several key benefits, from strict legal compliance to expert recommendations on materials and design. Fence installers manage every step of the job, making the process more efficient and reliable for you as a homeowner. Their expertise minimizes errors, speeds up the work, and often comes with a guarantee for workmanship and fence durability.

Here are some of the top benefits you can expect:

• Understands and follows local laws and permit requirements

• Orders the correct type and amount of materials needed

• Avoids waste and costly mistakes during installation

• Provides a guarantee on design and structure

• Suggests the best fence design for your needs

• Offers accurate cost estimates for materials and labor

• Advises on repair versus replacement for existing fences

• Coordinates necessary permits and land surveys

• Ensures fence is sturdy and weather-resistant

• Handles all steps from planning to finishing

Can I Hire a Handyperson to Build a Fence?

In areas where fence installation companies are not available, hiring a handyperson can be a practical solution for your fence project. A handyperson may be suitable for straightforward fence designs and can often offer flexibility with scheduling. 

However, it is important to confirm that the handyperson has experience with the type of fence you want and knows how to handle permits and property line surveys if required. While a handyperson can be cost-effective for simple projects, a lack of specialization may increase the risk of delays or errors, especially with complex or tall fences. 

If you want to ensure your project is handled by a professional, consider hiring a local fence installer for added peace of mind and expertise.

How Do Fence Installers Build a Fence?

Professional fence installers follow a detailed process to ensure proper installation that meets legal and design standards. The steps they take are:

1. Take detailed measurements of the installation area

2. Recommend materials based on your needs and goals

3. Draw up plans for the fence

4. Create a project timeline

5. Order all necessary materials

6. Determine if permits, surveys, or 811 marking are needed

7. Mark the fence layout and gate locations with temporary framing

8. Install posts in the ground, ensuring they are straight

9. Attach rails or other fence segments, keeping everything square

10. Paint or finish the materials as needed

How Much Does Building a Fence Cost?

Almost half the cost of building a fence is for labor, and you may save on these costs if you have the skills and tools to do the work yourself. Most homeowners pay between $1860 and $4760 to build a fence, but your total cost will depend on your choice of materials, the size and complexity of the design, and whether permits or land surveys are required. 

No per-hour rates or specific cost ranges are provided in the available information. For an accurate estimate, consult a fence installer to review material and labor costs for your project.