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How to Prepare Your Property for a Fence or Deck Installation

A little prep goes a long way. Here's the homeowner checklist that keeps your installation on schedule, on budget, and stress-free.

May 27, 2026 5 min read
How to Prepare Your Property for a Fence or Deck Installation

Prep Makes the Build Smooth

The day our crew arrives is the exciting part — but the week before is where you set the project up for success. A little preparation prevents delays, protects your property, and keeps costs predictable.

Your Pre-Installation Checklist

1. Mark Your Property Line

If you have a survey, great. If not, identify your property corners and flag them. We'll confirm measurements on-site, but knowing your line avoids disputes with neighbors.

2. Talk to Your Neighbors

A quick heads-up goes a long way. Let adjacent neighbors know the dates, and discuss any shared fence lines or boundaries.

3. Clear the Work Area

Move vehicles, patio furniture, grills, toys, and firewood at least a few feet back from the fence line or deck site. Trim back bushes or branches that crowd the work area.

4. Secure Pets and Kids

Plan for pets and children to be elsewhere or safely inside during work hours. Our crews are careful, but active work zones aren't safe for unsupervised kids or animals.

5. Locate Underground Utilities

Call 811 (the national call-before-you-dig line) or let us handle utility marking as part of your project. Hitting a buried line is dangerous and expensive — and entirely avoidable.

6. Confirm Access

Make sure our trucks and crew can reach the work area. Unlock gates, move vehicles blocking side yards, and let us know about any tight access.

7. Plan for Old Fence Removal

If we're replacing an existing fence, confirm whether removal and disposal are included in your estimate — they usually are with REC.

What We Handle for You

You don't have to manage the build. We handle permitting, utility marking, material delivery, installation, and site cleanup. Your job is the prep above; ours is a clean, on-schedule, professional install.

The Day of Installation

Our crew arrives on time, walks the plan with you, and gets to work. Most residential fences are done in 2–4 days; decks typically take 1–2 weeks. You'll know the schedule before we start.

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