In today’s world, many fence and deck companies are struggling to find and keep qualified installers. To fill the gap, some turn to subcontractors—outside crews that aren’t actually part of the company you hired. Most homeowners never realize this is happening, because these companies rarely disclose it and often present the subcontractors as “their team.”
But here’s the truth: when a company relies on subcontractors, they usually have little control over who shows up at your property, how experienced they are, or whether they’ve even been background-checked. Sometimes these workers are picked up last minute or are individuals just trying to make a few dollars that day.
Why It Matters
When subcontractors are involved, communication and accountability can become a real headache. If there’s a problem with the work, you might be told to “call the installer directly.” That leaves you stuck in the middle—especially if the subcontractor doesn’t respond or has moved on to another job.
Many subcontractors are former employees who went out on their own, and it can be hard to track them down later if issues arise. On top of that, subcontractors typically carry their own insurance—not the company’s—which means that if damage or an accident occurs on your property, you could end up chasing down multiple parties to get things resolved.
When it comes to your fence, deck, or handrail, you deserve a company that takes full responsibility from start to finish.
Be Extra Careful With Out-of-Town Companies
Another thing homeowners should watch for is out-of-town or corporate-style companies that advertise locally but aren’t actually based in the area. These companies often use subcontractors to cover a wide territory and may not have any long-term connection to your community.
If a company is based hundreds of miles away, it’s much harder to hold them accountable or get quick service if something goes wrong. Always research where a company is headquartered and confirm they have a local St. Louis presence and reputation.
Supporting a local business means working with a team that knows your area, your permit requirements, and your neighborhood expectations. Local fence companies like Makic Fence & Deck LLC understand Missouri weather, local soil conditions, and HOA rules—so your fence or deck is built to last.
What Homeowners Should Do
Before signing any contract, ask directly if the company uses subcontractors.
If the answer is yes, it’s best to move on. Look for a company that uses its own trained, in-house installers.
A few quick ways to protect yourself:
✅ Check the trucks and uniforms. If the crew shows up in unmarked vehicles, they’re likely subcontractors.
✅ Ask for proof of insurance. The company—not an individual installer—should be listed, and your name should be added to the insurance certificate.
✅ Get a final bid. Don’t agree to “extra” or “unexpected” fees for jackhammer holes, hard soil, or clearing. Every hole is a hard hole, and those costs should already be in your quote.
Our Promise at Makic Fence & Deck
At Makic Fence & Deck, we don’t use subcontractors—period. Every fence, deck, and handrail is installed by our own trained team of local company employees.
We never charge extra for jackhammer holes, hard soil, or clearing. Our quotes include everything—labor, materials, taxes, and cleanup—so the price you see is the price you pay.
We’re fully insured and happy to provide our insurance certificate or any documentation you need before your project begins.
When you choose Makic Fence & Deck LLC, you’re hiring a trusted local St. Louis fence and deck company that stands behind every job from start to finish—with no middlemen, no hidden fees, and no surprises.
