(03) 9108 1128
Do you need landscaping work to be done to your yard? Good, but there are a few questions to ask a landscaper before hiring them. Do you know if they are properly licensed, or if they will install the specific features you want? To ensure that your garden gets the makeover you want, ask the right questions, so you know you’re hiring a professional landscaper that will fulfill your vision.
Are they licensed and insured?
One of the first things you should ask for, is a copy of the contractor’s license and insurance. You can run checkups on their licenses online. There are a number of search engines you can use; just make sure they are on an Australian domain website. Once you have done that, you need to search their insurance policy number, to make sure they are covered. If the landscapers you hire aren’t licensed or insured, any accidents or mishaps that happen on your property will have to be covered by you.
How is maintenance handled?
You should get a good idea of how their maintenance policy works. Do they cover ongoing maintenance, or will they replace any trees or plants that have died unexpectedly? Every company is different and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask. That way you know exactly what will be going on in your yard.
What work have they previously completed?
Any good landscaper should be happy to show you their past projects. Not only does it give you an idea of what to expect, but it also shows they are open and communicative. You want your landscape contractor to be as open with you as possible. To get an idea of Waddell Landscaping’s work, there is a latest projects page on our website.
Where are the plants sourced?
Typically, you will want plants that are locally grown, but it doesn’t mean they have to be native plants. If your plants have been sourced locally, they will have an easier time adjusting to the local conditions. If they are shipped from somewhere across the country, the change in climate and soil may make it difficult for the plant to adjust and grow properly. They may be exposed to pests and diseases which they haven’t yet adjusted to. Also, if your plant is shipped from across Australia, you may need to pay extra shipping costs.
What is the project timeframe?
Landscaping work takes time, there is no denying it. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask for a rough estimate on a timeframe. It is your property, and you should know how long a project would take to be completed. Typically, more simple landscaping work takes around a few days, plus time to allow for everything to settle properly. Some larger projects may need more time and could take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, depending on whether there is construction to do or not. It all really depends on the scope of your project.
Can they provide an estimate of costs?
On top of asking how long it will take, requesting a quote is an important question to ask a landscaper. There are a lot of resources and materials used in landscaping projects, and you should be provided with a breakdown of costs, as we do at Waddel Landscape Design. If you are unsure of what you are paying for, ask the landscaper to explain. ins
If the price isn’t right for you, is there any way to reduce costs?
If you have a set budget and are not too happy with the estimate, you can ask the landscaper to reduce the costs. Sometimes the landscaper can use different materials or suggest different designs to cut costs for you. In the end, they should meet your needs as a client and charge you a comfortable price.
Do they install pools or outdoor lighting?
Maybe you want to install a pool or outdoor lighting, therefore an important question to ask a landscaper is if they also do this. Sometimes landscapers don’t provide outdoor lighting or pool installation as part of their pool services, as they may not have an electrician’s licence or knowledge about pool landscaping. It is a good idea to pick a landscaper that has an understanding of everything that is going into your property. If you need outdoor lighting or a pool, our team of landscaping experts are able to do this, and will make sure it fits with the current architectural design of your home.
Do they understand your vision?
There needs to be a clear and full understanding between you and the landscaping team. If they seem to be making too many changes or are dismissing your ideas, then they may not be the right fit for you. Landscape designers should provide you with a sketch and diagram to look at, so you know what you will be getting. Here at Waddell, we have 3D fly through technology, so you can get an accurate view of what it will look like to walk through your future garden. If there is anything you don’t like in the project, it can be easily fixed.
So, will you hire them?
If the landscapers have replied honestly and you are happy with their answers, you should begin construction. If you want professional landscapers, that are the best in the business, you should get in touch with us at Waddell Landscaping. We have outlined some of the features and services our company offers in this article, such as our 3D fly through technology and pool/lighting installation. Call us at (03) 9108 1128, or email us at info@waddelldesign.com.au for a free quote, or for any questions you may have.
