Tips for Hiring A Landscape Contractor

Looking for a brand new landscape?  A few dramatic additions?  Top/notch maintenance of your grounds?  Start by selecting a landscape contractor.  The right contractor will understand the link between your image and your landscape. 

Taking time to hire and reputable landscape contractor can assure that you will get quality work at a fair price.  The Washington Association of Landscape Professionals (WALP) offers the following tips when looking for a contractor. 

• Hire only a licensed contractor.  Be sure they carry workman's compensation, and liability insurance.  This is for your protection.
• Determine your budget.  Think about how much you can afford on the project or service.
• Decide what types of work you want done:  Landscape Construction, Maintenance, Irrigation, Retaining Walls, Patio's, etc. 
• An estimate is a good "Guess" as to what a project will cost.  For a firm price, a contractor will need a design.  Designing a landscape takes time and expertise no matter the size of the project.
• You should expect to pay for design services, just as you would pay for other professional services. 
• Meet with prospective firms and review their portfolios, ask for references and check them. 
• Ask for bids in writing.  Be sure all bids are based on comparable items:  plants, soil, mulch, edging, etc.  Ask about an items that you do not understand.  If a bid looks "To Good To Be True" it probably is. 
• Make sure you understand any contract before signing it.  Contracts should specify what work will be done, the charges, how long it will take, and a commencement date and completion date.  Beware of making down payments before signing a contract. 
• WALP is a trade association for landscape, irrigation, and maintenance contractors.  With members throughout Washington State.