Question 1

How do I protect against underground utility strikes during fence installation?

Accepted Answer

Require the fencing contractor to call 811 (national dig hotline) at least 48–72 hours before any excavation and obtain utility locates for all underground services. Include this requirement in the contract and verify compliance before work begins. Even with locates, require the contractor's GL policy to cover underground utility damage — some policies exclude this exposure.

Question 2

What insurance do I need for security fencing with electronic access control?

Accepted Answer

Security fencing with integrated access control (card readers, keypads, electric gate operators) combines standard fencing risks with electronic security system risks. Require standard GL for the physical installation plus professional liability for the electronic components. If the access control system will be monitored, apply the same insurance requirements as a security alarm contractor.

Question 3

Who is responsible if a fence is installed on the wrong property line?

Accepted Answer

The property manager should provide a current property survey to the fencing contractor before work begins. If the contractor installs a fence on the wrong property line despite having a current survey, their GL policy should cover the cost of removal and reinstallation. However, if no survey was provided and the fence encroaches on neighboring property, liability may fall on the property owner. Always obtain a survey before fence installation.

Question 4

What are the insurance implications of electric or automated gates?

Accepted Answer

Automated gates create additional liability for entrapment and crush injuries to pedestrians and vehicles. The fencing contractor's GL should cover gate-related injuries during and after installation. UL 325 compliance is required for automated gates and includes safety sensors, auto-reverse mechanisms, and warning signage. Verify that the gate operator meets UL 325 standards and that the contractor's completed operations coverage extends to gate-related claims.

Question 5

Do fencing contractors in Indiana need a license?

Accepted Answer

Licensing requirements for fencing contractors vary by municipality in Indiana. Check with your local licensing board and always request proof of current licensure on the COI.

Question 6

What happens if my fencing contractors's insurance expires in Indiana?

Accepted Answer

In Indiana, you as the property manager could be held liable for injuries or damages caused by an uninsured fencing contractors on your property. Indiana courts have consistently ruled that property owners have a duty to verify contractor insurance before allowing work to begin.

Coverage Type	Recommended Minimum	Notes
General Liability	$1,000,000 / $2,000,000	Standard $1M/$2M for most fencing work. Verify coverage for underground utility strikes. Projects involving security fencing with electronic access control may warrant professional liability coverage.
Workers Compensation	Required (1+ employees)	Indiana Code § 22-3-2-1 requires WC for all employers. Sole proprietors and partners are not counted as employees but any hired employee triggers the mandate.
Commercial General Liability	$1,000,000 / $2,000,000	Must cover underground utility strikes and property damage from excavation. Verify no exclusion for below-grade work or utility damage.
Workers' Compensation	Statutory limits	Required for all fencing contractors. Post driving, heavy lifting, and power equipment create significant injury exposures. Employers' liability of $500K/$500K/$500K is standard.
Commercial Auto	$1,000,000 combined single limit	Fencing contractors operate trucks and flatbed trailers hauling heavy materials (steel posts, rolls of chain link, concrete). Ensure coverage for loaded vehicles on your property.
Inland Marine / Equipment	$50,000	Covers specialized equipment (post drivers, augers, welding equipment) used during installation. Equipment damage on your property should be the contractor's responsibility.

Fencing Contractors Insurance Requirements in Indiana

Fencing Contractors Insurance Requirements in Indiana

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