How to Choose a Fence Contractor in South Carolina

Finding the Right Fence Contractor for Your Property

Installing a fence is a significant investment. Whether you are adding a wood privacy fence, an aluminum ornamental fence, or a chain link security fence, the contractor you choose determines the quality and durability of your project. Here in Orangeburg County, homeowners have many options — but not all fence contractors deliver the same level of professionalism.

At Dubya Fence Company, we have been serving Rowesville, Orangeburg, and surrounding communities since 2020. This guide will help you evaluate fence contractors and make an informed hiring decision.

1. Verify Licensing and Registration

South Carolina requires contractors performing work over $5,000 to hold a valid license from the SC Contractor's Licensing Board. Ask for their license number and verify it through the SC LLR website. A licensed contractor has met minimum competency standards.

Confirm the company has a valid business registration with the SC Secretary of State. Unlicensed contractors may offer lower prices, but you have limited legal recourse if the work is substandard.

2. Confirm Insurance Coverage

Any reputable fence contractor should carry both general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability protects you if the contractor damages your property during installation. Workers' compensation protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the insurance company directly to verify the policy is active. Do not rely solely on a printed document — policies can lapse between payments.

3. Check Reviews and References

Online reviews on Google, Facebook, and the BBB offer valuable insight into a contractor's track record. Look for patterns rather than individual reviews. Pay attention to how the contractor responds to negative reviews — professional responses indicate a company that values customer satisfaction.

Ask the contractor for references from recent projects in your area. A confident contractor will connect you with past customers.

4. Get Detailed Written Estimates

Always obtain at least three written estimates. A professional estimate should include:

• Total linear footage and fence height
• Material specifications (type, grade, brand)
• Labor costs broken out separately
• Permits and survey costs (if applicable)
• Timeline for project start and completion
• Payment schedule and terms
• Warranty details for materials and labor

Be cautious of estimates significantly lower than competitors. Low bids often indicate inferior materials or shortcuts in installation. Visit our fence cost guide to understand typical pricing.

5. Ask the Right Questions

Before signing a contract, ask these important questions:

• How deep do you set fence posts? In South Carolina's clay-heavy soil, posts should be set at least 24–30 inches deep with concrete footings.
• Do you handle permit applications? A professional contractor should manage the permitting process. See our SC fence permit guide.
• What happens if you hit a utility line? Reputable contractors always call 811 before breaking ground.
• Do you offer a warranty? Dubya Fence provides a comprehensive warranty on all installations.
• Who will be on site? Clarify whether the owner or a project manager will oversee the installation.

6. Watch for Red Flags

Protect yourself by watching for these warning signs:

• No written contract — A verbal agreement offers you zero protection.
• Large upfront payment demands — Requiring more than 30–50% upfront is a red flag.
• No physical address — Dubya Fence is at 2258 Bowman Branch Hwy, Rowesville, SC 29133.
• Pressure to sign immediately — High-pressure tactics indicate a contractor who doesn't want you comparing quotes.
• No photos of past work — A professional installer will have a portfolio of completed projects.
• Cash-only payments — Legitimate businesses accept checks, credit cards, and offer financing options.

7. Why Homeowners Choose Dubya Fence Company

Dubya Fence Company has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted fence contractors in the Orangeburg County area:

• Locally owned and operated in Rowesville, SC — we know the soil, the weather, and local building codes
• Licensed, insured, and bonded for your complete protection
• 5-star Google reviews from dozens of satisfied homeowners across our service areas
• Free, no-obligation estimates with transparent, upfront pricing
• Full range of fence types including wood, vinyl, aluminum, chain link, and farm fencing
• Professional installation crews supervised by company ownership

Whether you need a vinyl privacy fence or a commercial gate system, we deliver quality craftsmanship at fair prices. Call us at (803) 855-1001 for a free estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions