Do I need to be home during fence installation in Vancouver?

You do not necessarily need to be home for the entire fence installation, but you should be present for three key moments — the pre-start walkthrough, any mid-project decisions, and the final inspection before you sign off on the work. Most Metro Vancouver fence contractors are comfortable working independently once the project scope is confirmed, especially for straightforward installations. However, being completely absent for a multi-day project is not recommended.

Before work begins (essential to be present): Walk the property with your contractor to confirm the exact fence line, post locations, gate placement, and any areas of concern. This is when you verify that the fence stays on your property (not your neighbour's), that the contractor knows where any underground utilities, sprinkler lines, or drainage systems are located, and that both of you agree on the height, style, and material for each section. Misunderstandings at this stage lead to expensive corrections later. This walkthrough typically takes 15 to 30 minutes on the first morning of the project.

If you have had a BC One Call utility locate completed (which is required before any digging — call 1-800-474-6886), the locate marks should still be visible on the ground. Point these out to the crew and confirm they understand what each colour-coded mark represents.

During installation (flexible — not required to be on-site the entire time): Once the walkthrough is done and the crew is working, most homeowners leave for work and check in by phone if needed. Professional fence crews in Metro Vancouver are accustomed to working independently. However, you should be reachable by phone throughout the day because situations arise — the crew may discover a large root ball or rock that changes a post location, they may find that the ground slopes differently than expected and need your input on stepping versus racking, or a neighbour may raise a concern about the fence line that requires your involvement.

Decisions that may come up mid-project include: adjusting a post location to avoid an obstacle, changing the gap height at the bottom of the fence on sloped sections, choosing whether to fill a low spot with soil or extend the fence boards lower, deciding how to handle a section where a neighbour's structure (shed, deck, planter) encroaches near the property line, and gate swing direction if not previously specified.

For the final walkthrough (essential to be present): When the crew finishes, inspect the completed fence with the lead installer. Check that posts are plumb (use a level), panels are aligned, gates swing freely and latch properly, fasteners are driven flush without splitting the wood, the bottom of the fence is consistent and appropriately spaced from grade, and cleanup is complete (no concrete spills, leftover lumber, or debris). This is the time to note any deficiencies before you make the final payment. Reputable contractors will address reasonable punch-list items on the spot or return within a few days.

Access considerations are important if you will not be home. Your contractor needs access to the work area — if the fence is in the rear yard and the only access is through a locked side gate or the house, you will need to arrange access before leaving. Many Metro Vancouver homeowners provide a gate code or leave a side gate unlocked on installation day. If your property has rear lane access, the contractor may be able to stage materials and access the work area without needing to enter through the house at all.

Neighbours: It is good practice to let your adjacent neighbours know that fence work will be happening, especially if the crew needs to access or work near the property line from the neighbour's side. In Metro Vancouver's tight lot spacing (33-foot standard lots in Vancouver), fence crews sometimes need to temporarily place a ladder or work from the neighbour's side for post alignment and rail attachment. A quick heads-up avoids complaints and keeps neighbour relations positive.

Pet and child safety: If you have dogs, cats, or young children and will not be home during installation, make sure they are secured indoors or at another location. An active construction zone with open post holes, power tools, and stacked lumber is not safe for unsupervised pets or children. Also, the old fence may be partially or fully removed before the new one is complete, leaving your yard temporarily unfenced — plan accordingly if you have a dog that needs a contained outdoor space.

For most residential fence projects in Metro Vancouver — which typically take 1 to 3 days — the practical approach is to be present for the first-morning walkthrough, available by phone during the day, and present for the final inspection. Vancouver Fence Builders connects you with professional contractors who communicate clearly throughout the project — get matched for free.

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