One of the most important steps when starting a new home improvement project is finding a skilled contractor to complete the job. While some projects are well within the scope of a handyman, a new fence is not one of them. To keep your family or business safe, it’s important to always work with a licensed fencing contractor. In this blog, the team at Rosenbaum Fence Co. will break down exactly the differences between licensed and unlicensed contractors.
The Big Question: What is a Licensed Fence Contractor?
A license is a certification, usually issued by the state or local government, for passing a certifying exam. The exam shows the contractor has studied and is an expert in their field. All fencing contractors in Virginia are required to have a Virginia State Contractors License when installing fences on residential and commercial properties. At Rosenbaum Fence Co., we are certified as a Class A Contractor.
What Does it Mean to be a Licensed Contractor?
Having a license is a requirement for contractors, but many unlicensed fence contractors still operate in Virginia and the Hampton Roads area! So why do some contractors choose to get licensed?
Licensed contractors show that they are legitimate industry professionals willing to put their reputation behind their work. Unlicensed contractors could be anyone, from a random neighbor who installed a fence once to someone with a truck looking for some extra cash. In Virginia, many of these unlicensed contractors will call themselves “handymen”.
Licensed contractors show up to each job with a commitment to complete the job from start to finish, with their reputation on the line. Licensing also allows contractors to get necessary building permits, purchase insurance policies to protect you and your property, and so much more.
Differences Between Licensed and Unlicensed Contractors
Licensed Contractors Have Liability Insurance
In many areas, contractors must maintain both liability and worker’s compensation insurance to maintain their licensure, which is key to protecting you and your home. Like many other types of insurance, both liability and worker’s compensation insurance are essential in the event of an emergency.
Liability insurance protects you and your home in the event a contractor damages your property. For example, an unlicensed (and therefore uninsured) contractor may install a fence incorrectly, leading to damaged pipes and a flood. Because the contractor is uninsured, you will have to pay for repairs and the damages out of pocket. However, if you work with a licensed contractor, their liability insurance will cover the cost of the damages and repairs.
Licensed Contractors Have Worker’s Compensation Insurance
Licensed fence companies will have worker’s compensation insurance to protect their employees. Accidents and injuries can happen, even when you least expect it, and many property owners are shocked when they learn that they may be held responsible.
If an accident or injury happens, you may be sued by the unlicensed contractor or the injured worker because they were injured on your property. Unfortunately, this can result in the homeowner paying thousands of dollars in legal fees, medical bills, and compensation for lost wages. However, when you choose to work with a licensed contractor, you don’t need to worry about any of these unexpected (and unwelcome) costs.
Licensed Contractors Can Be Verified
Anyone with a truck and a shovel can claim to be an experienced, professional fence installer. It’s easier than ever to make a professional-appearing social media profile, find high-quality pictures, and send out business cards, but that doesn’t mean they are a good choice for your next fence.
While finding a reliable fence contractor can be challenging, it’s easy to find a list of licensed fencing contractors online! Many state governments have public records to help protect consumers. If you can’t find records online, any licensed contractor should be happy to show you their license. At Rosenbaum Fence, we believe in full transparency with our customers; if you have any questions about our licensing, please reach out to our friendly office staff, and we will be happy to answer.
Licensed Contractors Are More Likely to be Professionally Trained
Obtaining and keeping licensing and insurance up to date is not cheap. In many cases, it’s both expensive and time-consuming, but licensed contractors know that it’s key to running a reputable, professional business. This commitment to quality and professionalism bleeds into the rest of the company.
Across the country, numerous organizations offer training and guidance for fencing professionals to help install strong, safe fences. Participation in these organizations is entirely voluntary but shows a commitment to quality work, continued education, and excellence for customers. We are proud to have certifications or memberships with the American Fence Association, the National Federation of Independent Business, and the Builders & Contractors Exchange. In fact, Rosenbaum Fence Co. has been named a Blue Ribbon Company by the American Fence Association!
Licensed Contractors Depend On Their Reputation
Unlicensed contractors can pop up, install a few fences, and then immediately dissolve the company at the first sign of trouble. Without proper licensing, it’s impossible to track all of these fence installers! But, as we mentioned before, it’s a time-consuming process to become licensed, and after becoming licensed, your reputation as a fence contractor follows you. Customers can lodge formal complaints against licensed contractors, which may eventually lead to their license being suspended.
Our reputation as a trusted Virginia fence company means everything to the team at Rosenbaum Fence Co. We are proud of our work and every fence we install. Our customer testimonials speak for themselves and show our commitment to building quality fences with great customer service.
Ready to Work With a Licensed Virginia Fence Company?
The fence experts at Rosenbaum Fence Co. would love to show you why we are a top-rated and trusted Hampton Roads area fencing contractor. To get started, call us at (757) 723-3321 or contact us online to see how a licensed fence contractor can make your fencing dreams come true.
