Do good fences make good neighbors? You're starting to wonder. The Nelson's down the street put up that solid wood fence--it's nearly six feet--and the neighborhood is buzzing about it. The Nelson's have kids and a dog, but instead of considering what the Nelson's want to keep in their yard, the neighbors think only about what they might want to keep out. Furthermore, they didn't hire a fence contractor, and there's a rumor they failed to check into height restrictions or obtain a building permit. Everybody's just waiting for Mrs. Stuckey to call and rat on them.

A Fence Contractor: Your Defense against Mrs. Stuckey

You're in the market for a back yard fence, but all this stuff with the Nelson's has made you nervous. Local ordinances, building, permits--all that stuff makes your head spin, and it's hardly what you want to think about in your spare time. There's a lot to think about when you're considering a fence. A contractor can provide the professional perspective that helps you find the perfect balance between airy spaciousness and containment, and you won't have to deal with the bureaucratic red tape.

Finding a Fence Contractor

Your very own neighborhood is a great place to start. Take a walk in which you can admire (or silently criticize) the other fences in your area. If you see something that appeals to you, ask the home owner for their contractor's name. If that doesn't yield results, ask family and friends for references--you can even take a good walk in their neighborhood! The bottom line is that you want to see the contractor's work and seeing it in person gives you a better feel than any picture.

About the Author
Ellen Foster is a freelance writer and teacher. She has taught students aged five to forty-five.