Adding a fence to your property is a major investment that impacts everything from your home’s curb appeal to its security and value. A well-built fence offers privacy, safety for pets and kids, and a defined boundary for your property. But what happens when the contractor you hired isn’t delivering the quality, professionalism, or communication you expected?
Unfortunately, not every fence contractor operates with the same standards. Whether it’s missed deadlines, poor craftsmanship, or unexpected charges, hiring the wrong contractor can quickly turn your dream project into a frustrating mess.
In this guide, we’ll outline the key signs you may have hired the wrong fence contractor—and what you can do to fix it before the situation gets worse. Plus, we’ll show you how to avoid making the same mistake again and why Virginia Beach homeowners trust Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors for all their fencing needs.
Why Hiring the Right Fence Contractor Matters
Before diving into the warning signs, it’s important to understand why choosing the right fence contractor is so critical in the first place.
Fencing isn’t just a decorative upgrade—it’s a structural element that affects your home’s value, your family’s safety, and even your relationships with neighbors. An experienced, reputable fence contractor ensures your project:
- Complies with local zoning and permit requirements
- Uses high-quality materials suited for Virginia’s coastal climate
- Is installed securely to withstand storms and seasonal wear
- Enhances your home’s aesthetics and resale potential
- Avoids legal or HOA issues due to boundary or design violations
The right contractor will offer expert advice, accurate estimates, transparent timelines, and skilled workmanship. But when those elements are missing, problems can escalate quickly. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize red flags early and take action.
Top 7 Signs You Hired the Wrong Fence Contractor
If you’re feeling uneasy about your current fence project, it may not just be in your head. Here are the most common signs that you hired the wrong fence contractor—and why they matter.
1. Poor Communication or Unreturned Calls
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any home improvement project. If your fence contractor won’t return your calls, takes days to respond to messages, or constantly makes vague promises, that’s a red flag. Lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings about design, timelines, and budget—and is often a sign of disorganization or lack of professionalism.
2. Missed Deadlines or Inconsistent Scheduling
If your contractor keeps pushing back start dates or vanishes for days during the installation process without explanation, you may be dealing with poor time management or overbooking. While weather delays can happen—especially in Virginia Beach—your contractor should be transparent and keep you updated every step of the way.
3. Substandard Materials or Workmanship
You may have chosen a certain type of wood, vinyl, or aluminum based on durability and appearance—but what’s being installed doesn’t match your contract. Worse, the work being done looks rushed, uneven, or structurally unsound. A trustworthy fence contractor should deliver what was promised, and the craftsmanship should be clean, precise, and safe.
Common issues include:
- Leaning or unstable posts
- Gaps between panels
- Mismatched materials
- Uneven lines or slopes
- Loose or missing fasteners
These flaws aren’t just cosmetic—they can lead to long-term structural problems, safety hazards, and premature wear.
4. Lack of Proper Permits or Inspections
In most Virginia Beach neighborhoods, installing a new fence requires a permit and sometimes a property survey, especially near sidewalks, waterlines, or property lines. If your contractor brushes off these requirements or tells you to “pull the permit yourself,” that’s a serious issue. It may indicate they’re not properly licensed or are trying to sidestep legal responsibilities.
5. Unexpected Charges or Change Orders
It’s normal for small changes to occur during a project, but if your fence contractor keeps adding charges that weren’t in the original contract—or worse, demands more money before finishing the job—you may be getting scammed. A professional contractor should provide a detailed quote upfront and discuss any changes with your approval before proceeding.
6. No Written Contract or Incomplete Documentation
If the contractor started work without a signed contract, scope of work, payment schedule, or warranty details, you may be at serious risk. A lack of documentation leaves you with little legal protection if something goes wrong. Everything should be in writing, and your fence contractor should walk you through the contract before starting.
7. They Don’t Have Local References or Online Reviews
If your contractor can’t show you pictures of recent work, connect you with past customers, or provide credible online reviews, proceed with caution. Reputable contractors are proud to show off their work and share their reputation in the community. A lack of transparency is often a sign of inexperience—or worse, a history of dissatisfied clients.
How to Fix the Problem Before It Gets Worse
Realizing you’ve hired the wrong fence contractor can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to accept poor results or lost money. Here’s how to take control of the situation and turn things around.
Step 1: Document Everything
Take detailed photos of the current worksite, materials used, and any problem areas. Keep records of all texts, emails, invoices, and the original contract. This documentation can protect you if you need to file a complaint, dispute charges, or pursue legal action.
Step 2: Attempt Direct Communication
Sometimes, issues can be resolved with a clear and professional conversation. Contact your fence contractor directly to express your concerns. Be specific, calm, and firm about what’s unacceptable and what you expect. If they respond positively and fix the problems, great—you’ve salvaged the relationship.
But if they dismiss your concerns, become argumentative, or disappear altogether, it’s time to escalate.
Step 3: Stop Payment and Review Your Contract
If you’ve paid a deposit but haven’t received the agreed-upon services, stop any further payments until the work is completed to your satisfaction. If your contractor demands more money without fulfilling their part of the agreement, refer to the payment terms in your contract.
Never pay in full upfront. Ideally, payments should be structured in stages—deposit, mid-project, and final payment upon completion.
Step 4: File Complaints if Necessary
If the situation cannot be resolved, you may need to report the contractor to:
- The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Your local city or county permit office
- Your homeowner’s association (if applicable)
These entities may investigate and take action, especially if the contractor is operating without a license or has a pattern of complaints.
Step 5: Consult Another Contractor for Inspection
When in doubt, get a second opinion from a trusted, experienced fence contractor. They can assess the current state of your fence, explain what’s salvageable, and provide an honest estimate for completing or redoing the work. This gives you a path forward and helps restore confidence in your project.
How to Avoid Hiring the Wrong Fence Contractor in the Future
Learning from a bad experience is important—but so is avoiding it in the first place. The next time you need fencing work done, follow these best practices for finding the right professional.
1. Check Licenses, Insurance, and Credentials
Always confirm that the fence contractor is licensed to work in Virginia and carries both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you and your property from accidents or legal liabilities.
2. Ask for a Detailed Estimate and Timeline
Your quote should include material types, linear footage, post depth, hardware, finishes, and estimated project duration. Don’t accept vague pricing or “ballpark” figures—clarity upfront saves headaches later.
3. Read Reviews and Ask for References
Look up the contractor on Google, Yelp, Facebook, or the BBB. Ask for contact info for at least three local customers, and follow up with them about their experience.
4. Ask About Permits and HOA Rules
Your contractor should be familiar with Virginia Beach fence regulations and your HOA’s design requirements (if applicable). They should handle the permit process on your behalf and know how to navigate local red tape.
5. Don’t Be Pressured by “Today Only” Deals
A reputable fence contractor doesn’t need gimmicks or scare tactics to earn your business. Take your time, compare bids, and go with the contractor who is transparent, experienced, and easy to communicate with.
Why Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors Is the Trusted Fence Contractor in Virginia Beach
At Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors, we know that a fence is more than just a line on your property—it’s a statement of pride, privacy, and protection. As a trusted fence contractor serving Virginia Beach and surrounding areas, we’re committed to delivering craftsmanship and customer service that exceed expectations every time.
Here’s what makes us different from the rest:
Locally Owned and Operated
We understand the unique challenges of building in Virginia’s coastal climate. From wind zone compliance to salt-resistant materials, we use our local knowledge to ensure your fence stands strong for years to come.
Experienced, Licensed, and Insured
Our crews are trained, certified, and fully insured for your peace of mind. We handle all permits and follow local codes to the letter. You won’t have to worry about zoning issues, HOA disputes, or hidden surprises.
Transparent Pricing and Written Contracts
We provide detailed, line-by-line quotes with no hidden fees or pressure tactics. Every project is backed by a clear contract that outlines scope, payment schedule, and warranty details. You’ll know exactly what to expect from day one.
Quality Craftsmanship with Attention to Detail
We use only premium materials—whether you want wood, vinyl, aluminum, or composite fencing—and we install every component with precision. Our team is committed to delivering clean lines, sturdy posts, and a beautiful finish that enhances your home’s value.
Outstanding Communication and Follow-Through
From the first call to the final inspection, our team keeps you informed, involved, and confident in every step of your project. We show up on time, clean up the job site, and make sure you’re 100% satisfied before we call it done.
Hiring the wrong fence contractor can lead to frustration, wasted money, and poor results—but it doesn’t have to end that way. By recognizing the red flags early and knowing your options for resolution, you can take back control of your project and your property.
Better yet, you can avoid the problem altogether by working with a trusted, local expert who puts your needs first.
At Reitzel Roofing & Exteriors, we’re proud to be that fence contractor for homeowners across Virginia Beach. If you’re ready for a better fencing experience—one built on trust, transparency, and top-tier craftsmanship—reach out today for a free estimate.
