Installing a New Landscape and Dealing with Landscaping Contractors

A beautiful landscape adds considerable value to a home. Choosing the right landscaping contractor can determine the success or failure of this investment. It also allows you to create a landscape that is more eco friendly and one that requires less maintenance. Use the following guidelines when evaluating choices for your landscape installation.

First, decide how the landscape contractor can help you and the scope of your project. If you wish to work on some of the project yourself, find out if the landscaping contractor is amenable to this arrangement. Installing plant material, building decks and patios, installing retaining walls and irrigation systems, and installing night lighting are just a few of the services that landscape contractors can provide.

Second, decide who will provide the ongoing maintenance of your landscape – you or the landscaping contractor. Ask friends, neighbours, relatives and coworkers if they would recommend anyone based on their past experience.

Request the landscaping contractor inspect the site prior to writing an estimate. Ask if there is a fee for providing a written estimate. Your estimate should include price of the design and installation of the landscape, all labour, materials, local taxes and permit fees.

Remember, a low bid is not necessarily going to save you time and money in the long run. Just like in life, you often get what you pay for with landscaping contractors. Decide if price or quality is more important.

Questions to Ask the Landscaping Contractor

Here are a few questions you should ask your landscaping contractor:

1. How long has the landscaping contractor been in business?
2. Does the landscaping contractor intend to use subcontractors? If so, are they qualified and do they have the appropriate certifications/licenses?
3. What is the educational background and work experience of the employees who will work on your project, and what kind of continuing education do they receive?
4. What professional affiliations does the landscaping contractor hold?
5. What certifications do the workers hold?
6. Can the landscaping company provide customer references? Take the time to visit previous jobs the contractor has completed.
7. What is the payment schedule?
8. Is your landscaping contractor insured?
9. Does your landscaping contractor offer a written contract?
10. What kind of warranty is offered by the landscaping company?

Don’t hesitate to ask these questions and to make sure you understand the landscape construction or maintenance service you are getting. For more information regarding efficient landscape practices, contact Josh Remai, owner of Remai Landscape & Design - an Ottawa based landscaping company.