That’s a great question — choosing the right backyard fence company can make a big difference in how your fence turns out (in terms of cost, durability, and hassle). Here are what WE think make a great backyard fence company — factors you should check before hiring one.

✅ What to expect from a top-notch fence company

• Strong experience & relevant expertise

They have a significant track record of installing fences — ideally in a variety of materials (wood, vinyl, metal, etc.) and for properties similar to yours.
They understand local conditions (soil, climate, drainage) and local regulations or building codes so that your fence is installed safely and built to last.
They can work with different fence types and offer design advice based on your needs (privacy, security, aesthetics, pets, lawn layout, etc.).

• Proper credentials: licensing, insurance, professionalism

They should be properly licensed (or certified) to work in your area, which ensures compliance with regulations.
They should carry insurance (liability, worker coverage) — this protects you if something goes wrong (injury, property damage).
Professionalism: punctuality, clear written contracts, fair payment terms, clean job site, straightforward and transparent practices.

• Good reputation and verification (reviews, referrals, portfolios)

Positive reviews and testimonials from past customers — and preferably photos or evidence of their previous fence work.
References or referrals (friends / neighbours who have used them). Local word-of-mouth matters a lot.
A diverse portfolio — showing that they can do different styles or fence types depending on what you need (privacy fences, decorative fences, security fences, etc.).

• Clear, detailed quotes and transparent pricing

They provide a written, itemized estimate that outlines materials, labor, permits (if needed), and any extras.
Payment schedule and contract terms should be clear — avoid big upfront payments or ambiguous agreements.
They are upfront about factors that might affect price — uneven terrain, permit costs, material choice, and possible complications.

• High-quality materials and workmanship + long-term thinking

The company should offer — and be willing to discuss — different materials (wood, vinyl, metal, etc.) and help you pick one that suits your needs, climate, and maintenance tolerance.
They should stand behind their work — ideally with a workmanship or material warranty in case issues arise after installation.
Attention to detail during installation — proper post-depth, alignment, drainage planning, cleanup after the job is done.

• Good communication and client-service attitude

They respond promptly to your inquiries, explain the process clearly (materials, timeline, maintenance), and are willing to answer questions.
They discuss potential challenges ahead of time and how they’d handle them (e.g. uneven ground, weather delays, unexpected obstacles).
They treat your property with respect, keep the site tidy, and show respect for your time and needs.

⚠️ What to watch out for (red flags or warning signs)

Contractors who are vague about licensing or cannot show proof of insurance.
Quotes that are suspiciously low compared to others — could indicate cutting corners, substandard materials, or hidden costs later.
Lack of a written contract or refusal to provide a detailed, itemized estimate.
Poor communication or unresponsiveness during the quoting or planning phase.
Inability or unwillingness to show previous work / portfolio / references.

🏡 Why this matters — Especially if you live where you do

Since you’re in Winkler, Manitoba, climate, soil conditions, and seasonal weather (freezing — thaw cycles, snow, rain, wind) can really affect how long a fence lasts and how stable it is. A company that understands local conditions and uses suitable materials — and installs the fence properly — will save you money and headaches down the road.

Also — good communication, local reputation, willingness to work within local building regulations, warranties/follow-up after installation are more important than ever when dealing with long winters or fast-changing weather.

✅ Top 10 Questions to Ask a Fence Company (and What Good Answers Look Like)

1. Are you licensed and insured?

Good answer:
“Yes — we carry full liability insurance and worker’s compensation, and we’re licensed for fence installation in this area. We can provide documentation.”

2. How long have you been installing fences, and what types do you specialize in?

Good answer:
“We’ve been installing fences for many years and regularly work with wood, vinyl, chain link, and ornamental metal. We can show photos of past work similar to yours.”

3. Can you provide a detailed written estimate?

Good answer:
A clear, itemized quote including:

materials
labour
post-depth details
gates
removal of old fencing
timeline
warranty details
Surprises later = bad sign.

4. What materials do you recommend for my yard and local climate?

Good answer:
A company that understands soil, drainage, frost heave, wind load, and snow load. Should recommend post depth (often 3–4 feet in cold climates), suitable wood species, or vinyl/metal options that handle freeze–thaw cycles well.

5. How deep do you set your fence posts?

Good answer:
“At least 1/3 of the post’s total height or 3–4 feet for cold regions.”
Shallow posts = leaning fences in 2–3 years.

6. Do you handle permits, utility locating, and property-line confirmation?

Good answer:
“Yes, we will contact utility locating services and can help with permit requirements. Property-line responsibility is usually yours, but we’ll assist with guidance.”

7. What is your timeline for starting and completing the work?

Good answer:
A realistic window — not a vague “sometime next month.”
They should also explain how weather delays are handled.

8. What warranty do you offer on your materials and workmanship?

Good answer:
At least 1–3 years on workmanship, and manufacturer warranties on materials (especially vinyl and metal).
If they offer no warranty — walk away.

9. Can you show me photos or references from recent customers?

Good answer:
Clear, recent, local examples.
If they hesitate = red flag.

10. How do you handle unforeseen issues (rocky soil, grading problems, tree roots)?

Good answer:
They should explain potential additional costs up front and how they manage unexpected obstacles professionally.

What makes a great backyard fence company?