5 Tips On How To Fix A Fence that Has Fallen Down
Sometimes bad weather is unavoidable and may blow your fence down. A fallen-over fence can definitely become a frustrating sight, and you will immediately start thinking about what to do. Consider the following tips from Buda Fence Co. on what to do when your fence falls down.
1. Make the Area Safe
The very first thing you should do includes securing the accident area. Fallen fences may pose a danger, so we recommend removing any equipment in your yard and making sure the fence won’t fall anymore. If you can, remove anything that may have become trapped under the fence.
If your fence has brought down power lines, call an electrical company before doing anything. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous, so you’ll need to deal with those first before addressing your fence.
2. Assess the Damage
Next, you should assess the scope and severity of the damage. Try to determine what caused the fence to break. Common causes of fallen fences in Texas include:
● High winds
● Falling tree branches/trunks
● Rotted/corroded fence posts
● Improper installation
● Shifting ground
● Other force/impact
Once you discover the cause, assess the scope of the damage. Are the fence posts still intact? Are the metal/wood components bent/broken? What is the ground condition like?
In some cases, it may be necessary to move parts to minimize further damage. For example, if the fence has fallen against your house, try to lift the part affecting the side of your home to minimize damage.
3. Determine Ownership
You also need to figure out whether you or your neighbor owns the fence. It can be a bit tricky to determine who owns the fence and who bears responsibility. For example, if your fence falls on your side of the property line, then it’s your fence and your responsibility to get it fixed.
If your fence falls directly on the property line between you and your neighbor, then the fence is both your and your neighbor’s responsibility. You will need to consult with them to determine repairs. The faster you talk to your neighbors, the sooner you can get your fence fixed.
4. Check Your Insurance Policy
Most of the time, your homeowner’s policy will have some provision for fence damages, depending on the cause of the damage. Generally, a typical homeowner’s policy will cover fence damage if it is the result of:
● Storms
● Vandalism
● Vehicle accidents
● Falling debris
● Manufacturer error
Make sure you understand which perils your insurance policy includes. For example, many insurance companies will not cover fence damage due to flooding or mold. If your policy covers the fence damage, you will have a much easier time paying for repairs.
5. Look for a Professional
You might get lucky in some instances and be able to perform DIY fence repairs. But most of the time, you’ll need to call a professional. DIY fence repairs can be dangerous if you do not know what you’re doing, and you might actually make the damage worse.
A professional fencing company can make sure to abate all future damage and perform speedy repairs. They can also help you update your fence to prevent future damage with durable materials and expert installation.
Choosing the Right Fencing Company
Replacing a fence represents a significant financial and time investment. So you want to make sure you choose the best fencing company. Keep in mind a few things when searching for fencing contractors.
● Ask about licensing and insurance. Always make sure your contractor carries at least a general liability policy, as well as proper permits and licenses.
● Fencing process. Be sure to inquire about a company’s fence design and installation process. You want to get a good feel for how the process will unfold and how you can plan for it.
● Get quotes. Fencing costs can vary depending on your needs. Most fencing companies will offer a pricing quote after inspecting your fence. If you receive multiple quotes, you can compare and contrast contractors to make the best choice.
Contact Us Today!
Fencing problems can quickly develop into a massive headache. So it’s in your best interest to take steps to fix your fence as quickly as possible. Professional fencing companies such as Buda Fence Co. can help you get the fence care you need at a price you can afford.
Got a fencing problem on your hands? Contact us online or give us a call today at (512) 710-7116 to request a quote!