Choosing a fencing contractor is straightforward once you know what to ask. The difference between a smooth job and a frustrating one usually comes down to how clearly things are agreed on before work starts. These eight questions will help you compare contractors with confidence and avoid the most common problems homeowners run into.
1. Are You Licensed for Fencing Work?
In NSW, any fencing work valued at over $5,000 (including labour and materials) requires a contractor licence. This is a legal requirement, not just a formality.
Before you book anyone, you can check their licence status directly through the NSW Government’s licence verification tool. A licensed contractor carries the right insurance and is accountable under the Home Building Act. If something goes wrong, that matters.
A good answer sounds like: “Yes, here’s my licence number.” They should offer it without hesitation.
2. What Does the Quote Actually Include?
A low quote can look attractive until you realise it doesn’t cover removal of the old fence, disposal fees, gates, or site clean-up. These costs add up quickly.
Ask the contractor to walk you through every line item. A clear quote will specify whether old fence removal is included, how waste is disposed of, whether gates and hardware are covered, and what the site will look like when they leave.
A good answer sounds like: “The quote covers removal and disposal of the existing fence, installation of the new fence and gate, and a full clean-up on completion.”
3. How Will the Posts Be Set?
Post installation is the foundation of any fence. Posts set too shallow or without concrete will shift over time, especially in sandy or loose soils common across parts of the Central Coast.
Ask whether posts will be concreted in, how deep they’ll be set, and whether the depth varies based on fence height or material. For timber fencing in particular, post depth and concrete footing size directly affect how long the fence holds up.
A good answer sounds like: “We concrete all posts in, with depth determined by fence height and soil conditions on your block.”
4. What Happens If You Hit Rock or the Ground Slopes?
Not every block is flat, and not every site has easy digging. Rock, tree roots, and significant slope can all affect how the job is done and what it costs.
Ask upfront how the contractor handles these situations. Will they step the fence panels to follow the slope? Is there an additional charge for rock breaking? Knowing this before work starts prevents surprises on the invoice. Understanding how site conditions affect the overall new fence cost is worth factoring into your budget from the beginning.
A good answer sounds like: “We’ll assess the slope during the measure and quote. If we hit rock, we’ll let you know before proceeding and discuss any cost variation with you first.”
5. Who Handles Communication With the Neighbour?
Shared boundary fences involve two property owners, and NSW has specific rules about how costs and decisions are handled between neighbours. Misunderstandings here can delay a job or create tension that outlasts the project.
Ask whether the contractor has experience with shared boundary fences and whether they can advise you on the process. Some contractors will help you navigate the conversation; others will leave it entirely to you. Either approach can work, but you need to know which one you’re dealing with.
A good answer sounds like: “We can walk you through the process and let you know what your neighbour needs to be notified about before we start.”
6. How Long Will the Job Take and What Could Delay It?
A realistic timeline helps you plan around the work, especially if you have pets, children, or a property that needs to stay secure. Ask for a start date and an estimated completion date, and ask what factors could push that out.
Weather, material lead times, and access issues are all legitimate reasons for delays. A contractor who can name these upfront is being honest with you, not making excuses in advance.
A good answer sounds like: “We’re looking at two days on site. Rain or a delay in materials could push that, but we’ll keep you informed if anything changes.”
7. How Will You Keep Me Updated During the Job?
Poor communication is one of the most common complaints homeowners have about tradies. It’s not always about the quality of the work; it’s about not knowing what’s happening or when.
Ask who your main point of contact will be, how they prefer to communicate, and what you should do if you have a question during the job. A contractor who has a clear answer to this question is one who has thought about the customer experience, not just the build.
A good answer sounds like: “You’ll deal directly with me throughout. Call or text anytime and I’ll get back to you the same day.”
8. Can I See Similar Jobs You’ve Finished?
Photos of completed work give you a realistic sense of finish quality and attention to detail. Ask to see jobs that are similar in material, style, or site conditions to your own.
If a contractor can’t show you any completed work, that’s worth noting. Most experienced contractors have a portfolio of jobs they’re proud of and are happy to share.
A good answer sounds like: “Yes, here are some recent jobs. I can also point you to some Google reviews from customers if that helps.”
Ready to Get a Quote You Can Actually Compare?
The right contractor will answer these questions clearly and without hesitation. If you’re getting vague responses or quotes that leave out key details, keep looking.
As Central Coast fencing installers, we offer free onsite measures and written quotes that cover everything discussed above. We service areas across the region, including Gosford fencing installers and surrounding suburbs. Call (02) 4306 7871 or get in touch online to arrange your free onsite measure and quote.
