A Guide to Choosing a Good Landscaper

A well-landscaped property adds value to your home.

Professional landscapers have the knowledge and skills to transform an ordinary yard into a beautiful natural setting. Before choosing a good landscaper, be clear with your design requirements and your budget. Interview several candidates and do background checks. The time will be well spent because you are more likely to be satisfied with the work and end up with a nicely manicured, head-turning yard.

Instructions

1. Make a sketch of your property to show what types of plants you desire and where they should go. Indicate all the special landscaping features you would like to incorporate. Write down alternatives for plant types, their locations and the materials to be used in the landscaping features.

2. Find the names of landscapers by calling neighbors and friends for suggestions or by looking through online directories and the Yellow Pages. Go to local nurseries and ask for recommendations.

3. Meet with three landscapers to discuss your plans, budget, timeline and any additional concerns. Find out how long each has been in business and how many employees would be working on your job. Ask to see photos of completed work. Request three references from each landscaper and, if possible, visit the sites and speak with the homeowners.

4. Ask each landscaper if he is licensed and request his credentials. Ask also if he is a member of the American Society of Landscape Designers and the Better Business Bureau. Be sure the landscaper is insured and employs bonded, legal workers. Ask for proof of insurance and check to see that his name is on the policy. Write down the policy number, name of the insurance company and the phone number; call the insurance company to verify that the policy is current.

5. Request a follow-up meeting with each landscaper. Ask them to provide detailed sketches indicating what plants they will use and where they will put them. Ask also for an itemized list of plants and materials, the projected timeline and the total cost for the project.

6. Meet with the landscapers again to review their designs and discuss any concerns. Select the landscaper based on how well he has met your landscaping requirements and how willing he is to work with you and your budget. Have a contract drawn up detailing every aspect of the project.

References

• Best Garden Care.com: Landscapers
• Landscaping Services: How to Choose a Landscaper

Resources

• American Society of Landscape Architects