When you're interviewing fence companies in Walnut Creek, "years in business" is one of the first things that comes up. And while experience matters, it's not the whole story. A company that's been around for 25 years but doesn't carry proper insurance, uses subcontractors exclusively, or can't produce references from the past six months isn't a safer choice just because of the number. Here's how to evaluate experience in a way that actually tells you something useful.
What "Experience" Actually Means
Real fencing experience means understanding materials, local conditions, permit requirements, installation techniques, and how to troubleshoot when a project doesn't go as planned. The best indicator isn't years in business — it's the ability to answer specific technical questions clearly and confidently.
Ask About Their Team
Is the crew doing your job made up of trained employees or day laborers? Long-standing companies with experienced core crews consistently produce better results than operations that rely on temporary staffing.
Ask About Their Materials
A knowledgeable contractor should be able to tell you specifically why they recommend a particular wood species, chain link gauge, or iron finish for your application. Vague answers like "we use quality materials" without specifics are a signal.
Verify the Credentials
- CSLB License: Verify current status at cslb.ca.gov. Confirm the license classification includes fencing (Class C-13).
- General Liability Insurance: Protects your property from damage during the job.
- Workers' Compensation: Protects you from liability if a crew member is injured on your property.
Look at Recent Work
Request references from jobs completed in the last 6 to 12 months in the Walnut Creek or East Bay area. A company's quality in 2015 doesn't tell you much about their quality today — crews change, ownership changes, and operational standards can drift in either direction.
Evaluate the Written Quote
An experienced contractor produces a clear, itemized written estimate — not a back-of-napkin number. The quote should specify materials, dimensions, gate hardware, post depth, and timeline. A well-documented estimate is a direct indicator of how professionally the company operates.
Get Multiple Estimates
The most straightforward way to evaluate a contractor is to compare how they present their estimate against two or three others. Companies confident in their work provide detailed quotes and explain their recommendations. Those cutting corners are often vague or push to close before you've had a chance to compare.
Talk to All American Fence Corp
We've been installing fences throughout Walnut Creek and greater Contra Costa County for decades. Licensed, insured, and owner-operated — with our own trained installation crews. Contact us for a free estimate and we'll walk you through every detail of the project.