Hiring a landscaper

10 steps to follow

The Professional Landcare Network, an association representing more than 100,000 green industry professionals, suggests following these 10 steps before you hire a landscape professional.

1. Think outside the lawn. Landscape professionals not only install plant material, but also install hardscape material, including patios, decks, retaining walls, swimming pools, outdoor kitchens and living rooms, gazebos, and irrigation systems.

2. Check out their experience. Professional landscape companies should have employees with either a degree in ornamental horticulture or several years of experience. They should be members in national or state landscape associations. Ask for a list of references and professional affiliations. Look at each of the jobs listed to see if the work is the size, style, and quality you desire.

3. Make sure they are licensed or certified and insured. If required by state law, the company should be licensed or certified. This means they are operating legally and have passed examinations demonstrating experience, knowledge, and a level of professionalism. Certified landscape contractors have either CLP (Certified Landscaped Professional) or CLT (Certified Landscape Technician) following their names.

4. Know what you want. Do you want an area for entertaining, an extension of your living space, a low-maintenance landscape, or a high-impact design that is colorful? Determine your budget before you speak with a landscape professional. If you do not know what you want in a landscape design, a qualified professional should be able to help bring your needs and landscape style preferences into focus.

5. Find out what's covered (and what's not) and for how long. Proof of insurance for workers' compensation, liability, and vehicles should be available to you. Check a company's limits and policy expiration. Ask if they have an active safety program to minimize accidents. Under some circumstances, you could be liable for mishaps or accidents that occur on your property.

6. Visit a job in progress. Ask to see a project that will be similar to the work you will request. You want to hire a company that does good work, reflects professionalism and integrity. Examine the quality of the job and see if the crew's appearance and job presence are acceptable.

7. Get a written plan and/or contract. Prior to making any agreement, have the landscape contractor, designer, and/or architect put the details in writing. This can include the design, plant material to be used, all costs, a time-table, and the terms of payment. You have the right to amend the contract.

8. Know which services are provided in ongoing maintenance. Ongoing maintenance is necessary in order to protect your investment. You can do it, or you can ask the company to do the work. Generally, ongoing maintenance involves mowing, fertilizing, pest control, among other services.

9. Decide what you will do yourself. Once your new landscape is installed, you may wish to become more involved as a homeowner by maintaining the landscape yourself. If you want to care for certain landscaped areas, let the company know.

10. Learn more! To learn more about the value of landscaping and lawn care and to find a landscape professional or lawn care specialist near you, visit the Professional Landcare Network on the Web at www.landcarenetwork.org.