Planning the perfect outdoor space for your home takes creativity, vision and skill. A landscape designer’s job isn’t just to place trees, plants and hardscapes, but to work with you to design a space that fits your needs and embraces your style.
With so many options, selecting the right landscape professional can be a challenge. Consider the following tips to help you find the right fit when it comes to designing your dream landscape.
1. Research Services Provided
Determine what services you’ll need and compare options. In addition to landscape design and build services, some companies offer services like snow and ice management, insect control, holiday lighting and seasonal decor, irrigation system maintenance and more. Make sure you select a company that performs all the items you’ll need to streamline planning for these services year-round.
2. Explore Qualifications & Reputation
Your contractor research should include checking online reviews and reviewing their qualifications. Affiliation with organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Landscape Contractors Association is a good sign of professionalism. It’s also a good idea to verify a company’s general liability and other insurance coverage.
3. Interview Your Shortlist
Once you have your options narrowed down, ask the following questions to each prospective company:
- Where do you source your plants, shrubs and trees?
- How long do you estimate the whole project will take?
- What will your crew’s schedule be like when they are working on the project?
- Will you share references from some projects that are similar to mine?
- Can you share pictures of finished projects?
- Do you provide a landscape architecture drawing?
- Do you offer a warranty for plant material and/or workmanship?
4. Vet the Top Prospects
If a landscape company provides references, take the time to reach out to its current and former customers to hear about their personal experiences. Consider asking questions like:
- Was the project completed on time?
- Did the quality of work meet your expectations?
- Was the team courteous and professional?
- Would you hire the company again?
5. Get Estimates
Before making your final choice, meet with prospective landscapers and get written estimates. This step should include a professional coming to your home to discuss your vision, explore the features of your yard, and take measurements. The conversation should also cover the types of plants that will work for your space, as well as maintenance of those species.
The written estimate should cover total cost, including taxes; scope of the project, including what will be installed; proposed start and completion dates; plant specifications; payment terms; and warranty information.
Ready to get creative in your landscape? We’d love to bring our custom landscape design process to your space. Learn about our process here or contact us for a consultation about how we can craft an outdoor space that is truly unique.
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