The first step to setting up a consultation with a fence professional during the COVID-19 pandemic is sending the pro a message, which you can easily do online. Ask potential pros if you can set up a phone call or video chat to explain what fencing services you need. A video chat is useful because it allows the fence installer to guide you so they can get the necessary information. During the consultation, discuss virtual payments, the timeline of the project and any precautions you’ll both take to ensure safety.

If you do hire a fence installation or repair professional, follow both local government and CDC guidelines. Keep 6 or more feet of distance between you and the workers, do not shake hands and sanitize any surfaces involved. Virtual payments should be used instead of cash or checks. Determine a strategy to protect all parties when you discuss the project with local fence installers near you.

To figure out whether a fence professional can be considered an essential service provider during the COVID-19 pandemic, check the website of your city or state government. Another useful resource is CISA’s Identifying Critical Infrastructure During COVID-19, which provides information in a nationwide context. 

Within it are 16 different categories of infrastructure sectors that are considered essential. But keep in mind that some, not all, jurisdictions follow CISA’s definitions of critical infrastructure.

Currently, many fence and gate professional use common digital payment services like Venmo, PayPal, Square Cash, Google Pay, Zelle and more. Many more are quickly adopting the platforms as COVID-19 continues to force companies to digitally transform.

Contact the professional beforehand to discuss whether you can make digital payments, and take all measures to comply with social distancing recommendations. Compare fence professionals side-by-side online to see which ones accept digital payments.

Fencing jobs are done outdoors, so a fence professional or contractor will most likely not need to enter your home during the project. The exception to this may be any electrical work.

However, you may be able to work with fence professional to give them the information they need ahead of time through video chats, emails and photos sent digitally. Avoid all contact and practice social distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC and your local government. Discuss the best approach with local fence pros before they arrive at your home.

Because fence installation needs to be done in person, fence professionals usually cannot offer remote services. If you come across profiles that state they offer remote services, message the fence installer to see what those services include.

For consultations and meetings, ask the fence professional if you can coordinate a virtual consultation in which you explain the project to them through video, photos and drawings transferred online. If not, it may be wise to postpone the project and book an appointment at a later date.