So how does someone go about hiring a trustworthy, non-overcharging landscaper? There are several ways. Unless you live in an isolated area where you have no friends, no family, neighbors, or a phone book, listed below are several ways to determine who and how you should hire someone to landscape or maintain your lawn.
1. Word of mouth
Trust it. If your friends and neighbors have had good experience with a landscaper, chances are you will, too. Also, ask local nurseries, city landscape architects and home and garden stores for recommendations.
2. Ask for references and look for experience
For every landscaper who succeeds, there are dozens more who have failed. To find a dependable and trustworthy company, seek those that have survived and thrived. Check the references!
3. Look at similarly priced work
Though you may not have the trained eye of an expert, viewing their past work may save you regrets later on. Ask them to show you what they’ve done for the same price as your estimate.
4. Do they use the latest in machinery?
According to many landscapers, the recent development of new machinery, such as rubber-tracked all-purpose crawlers, has helped increase speed and efficiency, while at the same time reducing expense and manpower. This translates into savings for you.
One of the costs many landscapers factor in is resodding your lawn after their machinery has ripped up the grass.
5. Don’t pay until the job is done
Some landscapers will ask for a sizable down payment before the job is started, but many experts say you should be cautious before handing over any money. Try to keep it below 20% of the total cost.
6. Ask for estimates based on unit pricing
So that you know the price of each tree, flower and shrub, insist that the estimate be broken out to show per-item costs. And get the estimate in writing.
7. Ask to see liability and workers’ comp insurance
If an uninsured landscaper is hurt on your property, you may be personally liable for the injury. Be sure to see your landscaper’s insurance information.
8. Is the equipment safe?
Go out and look at a landscaper’s equipment at their place of business. If the machinery appears old or looks dangerous, you might want to move on to another landscaper.
9. Ask to see a pesticide license, or other appropriate licenses.
Though different states require different licenses, it’s wise to ask. For instance, pesticides are safe when used by trained and licensed professionals, but misuse can be dangerous to you and your family.
