Helpful links
The Truth about pavers vs. stamped concrete
The Benefits of interlocking paver systems vs.
other paving solutions
Checklist of questions to ask when hiring a Landscape Contractor
1. How long have you been in business?
If a landscape company has been doing business for a number of years in the
same area, chances are they're providing quality work and good customer
service. An experienced landscape contractor will be able to provide you with
photos of completed projects, as well as references from past clients.
2. What kind of education, training, and experience does your team have?
Be careful not to base your decision of who to hire based solely on the lowest
price quote. This may mean that they simply use cheaper labor to get the work
done. Designers should have a design background, patio and driveway
installers should have pavement installer certifications, and so on. And the
entire team should have as much experience as possible, particularly in the type
of features you're considering for your property.
3. Do you have a portfolio of completed projects that I can see?
A picture is worth a thousand words. And lots of pictures usually mean lots of
experience. Plus, by browsing their portfolio, you'll get some great ideas for
your own property.
4. Can you provide letters of reference from satisfied clients?
When a customer takes time out of their schedule to write a letter of
recommendation, that speaks volumes. Always ask for references.
5. Are you a member in good standing of the
Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
If so, you can easily check the BBB web site to see whether or not they have
had any complaints. If they're not a member, it can be hard to tell if other
customers have had a hard time with this firm in the past.
6. What kind of insurance do you carry, and can I see proof of insurance
before you begin work at my home?
You will want to make sure that any damage that may occur during installation -
to property or to people - is covered.
7. What industry certifications do you have?
Educational and training programs, which lead to professional certifications, are
widely available in the landscape industry. Choose a company that has
invested in the training and certification of its team.
8. Will your crews clean up their mess?
Building a retaining wall, installing a patio, and planting trees can be quite
messy. It often involves bringing in sand, dirt and other materials, and
sometimes operating heavy equipment that can leave tire marks. As the
customer, you should not have to deal with an unsightly property during the
construction, nor should you be the one to bring your property back to its original appearance.