How to Hire a Landscape Contractor

How to Hire a Landscape Contractor

Whether you are searching for a professional landscape contractor to install new landscaping or to service a existing landscape assets, the professionals you consider should have certain qualifications.

Insurance
The insurance policies are critical. You may be liable if something unexpected happens and your contractor isn't sufficiently insured. Disqualify any contractor who fails to provide:

• A worker's compensation insurance policy. This protects you from potential liability if one a worker gets hurt on your property. Ask for a certificate of insurance directly through the contractors insurance company.
  
• A general liability insurance policy. This protects you in case of a disaster such as flooding or landslides caused by the contractor's actions. Look for liability policies with a limit of between $300,000 and $500,000 for residential properties and $1 million for commercial properties. Get a certificate of insurance directly through the contractors insurance company.

Certification, Training, Memberships and Licensing

• Business license: A must have. Contractor must be able to provide you a business license.
  
• Certifications: Ask if the contractor is certified through a reputable (public or private) organization.
  
• Training: Training is provided through many sources such as associations, vendors, universities. Ask to see proof of the training that the contractor has.
  

References and Portfolios

• A portfolio of past work: As for a brochure listing a few present customers and pictures of the landscaping.
  
• References: Expect the contractor to provide the names and telephone numbers of references for you to call. Take the time to stop by and see the reference sites.
  

Other Factors

• Professional appearance: Neat, clean and professional appearance indicates pride and professionalism.
  
• Equipment: Look for a well maintained truck with the company logo.
  
• Timeliness: Don't expect a contractor who is late to your first meeting to be on time in the future.
• Association and/or trade organization membership: Many professional contractors chose to join associations and other similar organizations to keep up with standards and best practices.
  
• Work history: Call up Better Business Bureau and check on the contractors history. If the job is large enough to justify the expense, check the contractors' Dun & Bradstreet reports.
  

References for this post:
Irrigation Association articles: http://www.irrigation.org