Top 8 Fence Companies near Lehigh Acres, FL

How to Choose a Fence Company in Estero, FL

Selecting the right fence company in Estero is crucial for ensuring your investment withstands the unique challenges of Southwest Florida’s coastal climate, hurricane seasons, and local regulations.

Here’s your complete guide to making an informed decision:

1. Verify Licensing and Insurance Requirements

Check State and Local Licensing

• In unincorporated areas of Lee County (not inside incorporated towns like Bonita Springs or Fort Myers Beach), contractors performing fence installations must have a state-certified license registered with Lee County or a Lee County-issued competency card.
• Every contractor (including those building fences) must register with the Village of Estero Building & Permitting Services before applying for a building permit.
  • Required registration documents include:
    • A current State contractors license or Lee County competency card
    • General liability insurance
    • Workers’ compensation insurance or exemption certificate
    • Completed Contractor Registration Form, and (if applicable) an Authorized Agent Affidavit
• Look for certifications such as Certified Fence Contractors (CFC) from the American Fence Association.

Confirm Insurance Coverage

• General liability insurance (minimum $1 million recommended)
• Workers’ compensation insurance for all employees
• Bonding coverage to protect against contractor default
• Request certificates of insurance and verify they’re current

Never hire an unlicensed or uninsured contractor – you could be liable for accidents and left without recourse for poor workmanship.

2. Evaluate Experience and Local Knowledge

Ask Key Questions:

• “How long have you been installing fences in Estero specifically?”
• “Have you worked in my neighborhood before?”
• “Can you provide references from recent local projects?”
• “What challenges have you encountered with coastal installations?”

Look for Estero Specific Experience:

• Understanding of salt air corrosion issues
• Knowledge of local soil conditions and drainage
• Familiarity with HOA requirements in upscale communities
• Experience with hurricane preparedness and post-storm repairs

3. Get Detailed Written Estimates

Compare Comprehensive Quotes:

• Materials: Specific grades, brands, and quality levels
• Installation: Post depth, concrete specs, hardware quality
• Permits: Who handles applications and associated costs
• Timeline: Realistic completion dates with weather contingencies
• Warranty: Coverage for materials and workmanship

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Quotes significantly below others (may indicate corner-cutting)
• Vague timelines or material specifications
• Demands for full payment upfront
• No written warranty or guarantee
• Pressure tactics or door-to-door sales

4. Research Reviews and Verify References Across Multiple Platforms

Check Online Review Sources:

• Google Reviews: Look for patterns in feedback and recent reviews
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check complaint history, resolution rates, and BBB rating
• Angie’s List/Angi: Professional contractor reviews and ratings
• HomeAdvisor: Verified customer reviews and project photos
• Yelp: Local business reviews and customer experiences
• Facebook Reviews: Social media feedback and community discussions
• Nextdoor: Neighborhood-specific recommendations from local residents
• Houzz: Home improvement project reviews with photos

Social Media and Local Sources:

• Facebook Groups: Estero community groups and HOA pages
• Instagram: Look for project photos and customer tags
• Chamber of Commerce: Check the Estero Chamber of Commerce for member listings and business standings

Direct Reference Verification:

• Recent Projects: Ask to see local installations or speak with recent customers
• Portfolio: Review photos of similar projects in similar conditions
• Before/After Photos: Request documentation of completed work
• Customer Testimonials: Written recommendations from past clients

Warning Signs Across All Platforms:

• No online presence or reviews
• Consistently negative reviews about the same issues
• Recent surge of positive reviews (possible fake reviews)
• Reluctance to provide customer contacts
• Multiple unresolved complaints across platforms
• No physical business address in the area
• Defensive or unprofessional responses to negative reviews

What to Look For:

• Consistent positive feedback across multiple platforms
• Professional responses to both positive and negative reviews
• Detailed project photos showing quality workmanship
• Local customers mentioning specific Naples neighborhoods
• Reviews that mention hurricane resistance and coastal durability
• Long-term customers returning for additional projects

5. Understand Warranty and Maintenance Support

Warranty Expectations:

• Workmanship: Minimum 1-3 years for installation quality
• Materials: Manufacturer warranties (often 15-25+ years for vinyl/aluminum)
• Transferability: Important for property resale value
• Local Support: Company should be available for warranty service

Maintenance Considerations:

• Annual inspection recommendations
• Cleaning and care instructions
• Repair services availability
• Post-hurricane assessment and repair capabilities