Deck and fence questions

Yes for a new deck. North Carolina's permit exemption for jobs of $40,000 or less does not cover adding or replacing load-bearing structures, and a deck frame carries load. It does cover replacing decking, railings, pickets and stair treads.

Towns can require work to be opened up for inspection and charge fees after the fact, and an unpermitted deck can come up when you sell. Apex warns owners may have to expose framing so inspections can be done. We permit every deck.

Non-structural work of $40,000 or less, such as replacing deck boards, railings or stair treads, siding, windows and doors. Anything that adds or changes a load-bearing frame, or adds wiring or plumbing, needs a permit.

There is no single state rule. Cary allows fences up to the line, Apex up to but not on it, and Garner recommends 6 inches inside it. Easements and HOA rules can push it farther.

Depends on the town. Raleigh needs a zoning permit for every new fence; Garner and Clayton need zoning permits; Cary, Knightdale, Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina need none for a typical backyard fence.

On a flat yard at ground level, a patio can cost less per square foot. On a slope or off a raised door, a deck is usually the practical choice. We build decks, not patios.

Wood costs less up front. Composite costs more but needs no staining. In Angi's Raleigh data, pressure-treated boards cost $2 to $4 per sq ft and composite boards $10 to $19, before labour.

Yes, before every dig. State law asks for at least three full working days' notice.

Yes. We supply the drawings, materials and colours your HOA asks for and wait for approval before we build.

Independent local builders who work under our brand install your project to our plans. We manage the schedule, inspections and walk-through, and your written estimate sets the price, scope and warranty.