Hiring a landscape contractor

There are people who throw a wheelbarrow in the back of their pickup and call themselves a landscape contractor. Your landscaping is the first thing people see and can add a substantial amount of value to your home. So you should really spend some time in choosing a contractor and not just pick someone out of the phone book or classifieds without doing a little more research. Here are a few questions to keep in mind:
1. How long have you been in business?
2. Are there specific types of work you perform - are there things you can't do? If required, (such as for electrical work or irrigation systems) what is your license number? Don't just ask if they have a license or if they are certified, request to see a copy of their certifications.
3. Have you done similar jobs before?
4. Ask for references. Don't just look at photos. Go and see actual work. Photos can be manipulated.
5. Will you use your own crew or will you subcontract? How often will the supervisor (owner, etc.) be on site?
6. Will you provide a written estimate and contract?
7. What type of work schedule do you follow? What happens if your work is delayed due to weather?
8. Do you provide clean up?
9. What kind of guarantees do you provide - both on hardscaping and plants?
10. Do you carry workers comp and liability insurance?
Contractors generally require a downpayment, a payment halfway through and then a final payment at the end. If you are not satisified, make sure the work is corrected before making the final payment.