1. Chicago-specific tax handling
- State sales tax: 6.25%. Local jurisdictions in Chicago may add their own rate — verify with your local tax assessor.
- Late fees: IL statute 815 ILCS 205/4 (Interest Act) caps interest on unpaid invoices at 1.5% per month.
2. Standard fence installer line items
- Materials — billed by itemized.
- Labor — per linear foot — billed by linear-foot (~$18 default).
- Gate install — billed by flat (~$250 default).
- Permit fee — billed by passthrough.
3. Payment terms that work in Chicago
Net 14 is standard for fence installers. Most fence installers in competitive markets like Chicago require a 33% deposit upfront before scheduling work. Accept card and ACH on the invoice itself — Chicago customers expect a one-click payment link in their inbox.
4. Licensing & disclosures
Contractor license required in most states for jobs over a threshold. HOA approval often required.
Metro
Chicago
State
IL
Net terms
14 days
Deposit
33%