The Complete Fence Buyer's Checklist (Print & Save)

This checklist covers every step of a fence project from initial planning through post-installation inspection. It's organized in chronological order — work through it top to bottom and you'll avoid the most common (and expensive) mistakes homeowners make.

Based on the AFA's Fence Installation School site preparation and installation modules.

Phase 1: Planning (2–4 Weeks Before Installation)

Phase 2: Contractor Selection (1–2 Weeks)

] Get **3–5 written quotes** from licensed contractors. [Find contractors →
] Verify **license and insurance** (general liability + workers' comp). [Questions to ask →
[ ] Ask about post depth, concrete cure time, and 811 process
[ ] Check references and photos of recent similar projects
[ ] Compare quotes for what's included vs. excluded
[ ] Review the workmanship warranty (1–5 years is standard)
[ ] Sign a written contract that includes: materials, timeline, payment schedule, warranty, and what's excluded
[ ] Pay deposit (25–35% is standard — never 100% upfront)

Phase 3: Pre-Installation (1–2 Weeks Before)

[ ] Pull the fence permit (you or the contractor)
] **Call 811** for utility marking — minimum 2 business days before digging, per AFA standards. [811 guide →
] **Notify your neighbor** if building on or near the property line (required in California, recommended everywhere). [Property line guide →
[ ] Remove the old fence (if DIY) or confirm it's included in the contract
[ ] Clear the fence line — move furniture, toys, planters, and trim overhanging branches
[ ] Mark sprinkler heads and invisible dog fence wires (811 doesn't mark these)
[ ] Confirm the start date with the contractor

Phase 4: During Installation (Verify These)

Day 1: Post Holes and Setting

] Post holes are **at least one-third of total post length** deep. [Post depth guide →
[ ] Post holes are 3× the post diameter wide (10–12" for 4×4 posts, 14–16" for gate posts)
[ ] Posts are plumb in two directions (check with a level)
[ ] Posts are aligned with each other along the string line
[ ] Concrete is crowned above grade (slopes away from the post for drainage)
[ ] Gate posts are set deeper and wider than line posts
[ ] No fence work on posts until concrete cures 48–72 hours

Day 2–3: Rails and Panels

[ ] Rails are level and securely fastened
[ ] Pickets/panels are evenly spaced and consistently attached
[ ] Bottom clearance is consistent (2" above grade is typical)
[ ] Screws are used (not nails — nails work loose over time)
[ ] All end grain (board tops/bottoms) is treated or sealed

Gates

[ ] Gate swings freely without dragging or binding
[ ] Gate latches positively every time
[ ] Gate post is not leaning under the gate weight
] **Self-closing mechanism** works (if required for pool barrier). [Pool fence guide →
[ ] Gate clearance is adequate on all sides

Phase 5: Post-Installation Inspection

Before making final payment:

[ ] Walk the entire fence line checking for consistency
[ ] Verify all posts are plumb (not leaning)
[ ] Check panel alignment — are boards straight and even?
[ ] Test every gate — open, close, latch, repeat
[ ] Verify cleanup — concrete spills, debris, old materials removed
[ ] Confirm the fence matches the permit (height, location, material)
[ ] Schedule city inspection if required by your permit
[ ] Obtain the workmanship warranty in writing
[ ] Make final payment only after inspection and satisfaction

Phase 6: After Installation

Within 30 Days

] **Schedule staining** for wood fences (wait 3–6 months for new wood to dry, but schedule now). [Staining guide →
[ ] Submit HOA completion notice if required
[ ] Close the permit with your city (some require a final inspection sign-off)

Ongoing Maintenance

] **Annual inspection** — check posts, panels, hardware, gates. [Maintenance schedule →
[ ] Stain/seal wood every 2–3 years (cedar) or 1–2 years (treated pine)
] **Clean vinyl** once or twice yearly. [Vinyl maintenance →
] **Touch up metal** fence chips/scratches immediately. [Rust prevention →

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the entire process take?

Planning: 2–4 weeks. Contractor selection: 1–2 weeks. Pre-installation: 1–2 weeks. Installation: 1–3 days. Total: 4–8 weeks from decision to finished fence.

What's the most commonly skipped step?

Property survey and easement check. Homeowners assume they know where the line is. Assumption + fence = potential forced removal. The $300–$600 survey is the cheapest insurance in this entire checklist.

Can I use this checklist for DIY?

Yes — skip the contractor selection section and apply everything else. The installation verification phase is especially important for DIY: check your own work against these standards before considering the project complete.

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*Checklist based on American Fence Association Fence Installation School site preparation, post setting, and concrete modules.*