Hiring a professional fence company to install your new fence is one of the best ways to boost privacy, enhance security, and elevate your property's curb appeal. But if you’ve never gone through the process before, you might be unsure of what to expect. How long does it take? Will your yard be disrupted? What should you do to prepare? Knowing what to expect at each stage will make your experience smoother, help you communicate better with your fence company, and ensure that your new fence meets your expectations.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Site Visit
The process begins when you contact a fence company for an estimate. A professional installer will typically schedule a visit to your property to assess the site, understand your goals, and offer recommendations. During this visit, expect them to:
Take measurements of your property
Evaluate the terrain, soil conditions, and slope
Ask about your fencing goals (privacy, security, aesthetics, pet safety, etc.)
Show you material samples and discuss design options
Answer any questions about cost, durability, and maintenance
The information gathered during this step helps the fence company prepare an accurate quote and determine the right materials and layout for your specific needs.
Step 2: Project Estimate and Proposal
After the site visit, you’ll receive a written estimate outlining the details of your project. This proposal should include:
Fence style and material (e.g., wood, vinyl, aluminum)
Total linear footage and height
Gates, posts, hardware, and accessories
Labor and material costs
Timeline for completion
Warranties and payment terms
A transparent, itemized estimate lets you understand exactly what you’re paying for and reduces the chance of hidden fees. Be sure to review the proposal carefully and ask your fence company to clarify anything that’s unclear.
Step 3: Permits and Property Line Verification
Before installation begins, permits may need to be secured. Most cities and counties require permits for fence installation, especially if the fence exceeds a certain height or sits near public easements or sidewalks.
At this stage, your fence company may:
Submit permit applications to local authorities
Schedule any required inspections
Confirm utility locations and call 811 to mark underground lines
Help you verify property lines using existing surveys or boundary markers
Avoid skipping this step—building over a neighbor’s property line or near utility lines can result in fines or forced removal. A responsible fence company will ensure everything is approved before breaking ground.
Step 4: Scheduling the Installation
Once permits are approved and materials are ready, the fence company will schedule your installation. The project timeline may depend on:
Weather conditions
Material availability
Complexity of your fence design
Size of your yard
Most residential fence installations take 2 to 5 days to complete. Your fence company should provide you with a projected start and end date and give you updates if delays occur.
Step 5: Pre-Installation Preparation
In the days leading up to installation, you may need to do a few things to prepare your yard. While the fence company will handle most of the labor, you can help the process go smoothly by:
Clearing the fence line of debris, furniture, and obstacles
Trimming overgrown plants or bushes
Unlocking gates or arranging access if you won’t be home
Marking sprinklers or landscape lighting that may be near the fence line
Securing pets indoors or in a safe area
Ask your fence company if there’s anything specific they need you to do before installation begins.
Step 6: Fence Installation Begins
On installation day, the crew will arrive with tools, materials, and machinery. The typical installation process includes:
Marking and Layout
The crew will mark the fence layout using string lines and stakes to outline where the fence will go. This ensures the fence follows the planned path and meets any legal or HOA requirements.
Post Hole Digging
The first physical step is digging holes for fence posts. The depth of the holes depends on fence height, local frost depth, and soil conditions—usually 2 to 3 feet deep.
Setting Posts
Fence posts are placed into the holes and set using concrete. This is a critical step, as the posts form the foundation for your entire fence. Once set, the concrete is allowed to cure for at least 24 hours to ensure stability.
Installing Rails and Panels
Once the posts are secure, the crew will begin attaching horizontal rails and fence panels or pickets. Depending on the material, panels may be pre-assembled (as with vinyl or chain link) or built board-by-board on-site (as with many wood fences).
Installing Gates
Next, gates are added. The fence company will make sure gates are level, open and close smoothly, and are fitted with appropriate latches and hinges.
Finishing Touches
Finally, the crew will complete any finish work, such as trimming boards, touching up paint or stain, or cleaning up concrete splatter. The fence will be checked for alignment, structural integrity, and smooth operation of gates.
Step 7: Cleanup and Final Walkthrough
Once the fence is fully installed, the crew will clean up the site by:
Removing construction debris and unused materials
Raking and leveling disturbed soil around the posts
Hauling away old fence sections, if applicable
Checking for damage to lawn or landscaping
Your fence company should walk you through the completed fence, demonstrate how to use any locks or gates, and answer final questions. This is also the time to identify and address any concerns before signing off on the project.
Step 8: Payment and Warranty Information
After the job is complete and you’re satisfied, it’s time to finalize payment. Be sure to receive:
A copy of your invoice
Any manufacturer or labor warranties
Instructions for fence maintenance (especially for wood or metal fences)
Contact info for follow-up questions or repairs
A reputable fence company stands by their work and offers warranties that cover materials and workmanship. Keep all documentation in a safe place in case you need service in the future.
Step 9: Ongoing Maintenance (Optional)
Most fences require some level of upkeep to stay in good shape. Your fence company may offer maintenance packages or suggest a schedule for:
Cleaning (especially for vinyl and metal)
Staining or sealing wood every 2–3 years
Checking for loose boards, screws, or leaning posts
Lubricating gate hinges
Maintaining your fence properly ensures it lasts longer and continues to look great.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Fence Company
While some homeowners consider DIY fence installation, hiring a fence company comes with several advantages:
Expertise with materials, tools, and building codes
Faster installation and fewer mistakes
Proper post setting for long-term stability
Assistance with permits and property boundaries
Professional-grade tools and cleanup
In the long run, hiring professionals saves you time, stress, and costly repairs due to improper installation.
Final Thoughts
Installing a fence may seem like a simple project, but it involves careful planning, legal compliance, and skilled labor. Knowing what to expect helps you stay informed, prepared, and confident throughout the process. From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, a trusted fence company will guide you every step of the way to ensure your new fence looks great, functions well, and lasts for years.
Whether you’re fencing in your backyard for privacy or securing your property with a perimeter barrier, understanding the installation process makes it easier to achieve the result you want—and avoid common headaches.
FAQs About Fence Installation
How long does fence installation take?
Most residential fence installations take between 2 and 5 days, depending on yard size, materials, and weather.
Do I need to be home during installation?
Not necessarily, but it's helpful to be available for the initial layout and final walkthrough. Your fence company can keep you informed remotely if you’re not home.
Will the fence company handle permits?
Yes, most fence companies will apply for the necessary permits and call to mark utility lines. Always confirm this service is included.
How do I prepare my yard for fence installation?
Clear the fence line of obstacles, unlock access points, and secure pets. Ask your fence company for a specific prep checklist.
What happens if the fence is installed over a utility line?
Utility lines must be located before digging begins. A responsible fence company will contact the local 811 service to avoid dangerous or illegal digging.
