Hiring a landscaper is like hiring a mechanic — you find out how good they are when something goes wrong. Most people pick the cheapest bid or the first name on Google. That's a mistake that costs you time, money, and a yard that looks worse than when you started.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' comp before they even set foot on your property. A guy with a truck and a mower isn't a business. If he drops a rock through your window or hurts himself on your lawn, you're on the hook without his insurance. Some states don't require a license for basic lawn care, but if they're building patios, walls, or irrigation, they need a contractor's license. Call the state board to verify. Don't take their word for it.
Experience & References Questions
Ask how long they've been doing the specific work you need. Someone who's great at mowing can wreck your drainage if they try to grade your yard. Get three references from the last six months. Call them. Ask about punctuality, cleanup, and how they handled problems. One bad reference is enough to cross them off. If a person dodges giving references, that's your answer.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get a written estimate that breaks down materials, labor, and any equipment rental fees. A flat price with no line items means they can add charges later. Ask about the timeline in writing — start date, completion date, and what happens if it rains. If they say "depends on weather" without a clear makeup schedule, you'll be waiting all summer. Payment terms should be clear: no more than a third upfront, another third at halfway, the rest on completion. Never pay in full before work starts.
Contract Questions
Read the contract like it's a medical bill. Look for cancellation clauses, change order fees, and warranty language on plants and hardscape. If they promise a 2-year warranty on a patio, get it in writing with specifics on what's covered — cracking, settling, staining. The contract should also say who cleans up every day, where they dump debris, and what happens to old sod or plants. If they won't put it in writing, walk away. Handshake deals leave you holding the bag.
Compare local landscapers on RatingsNearMe to see who actually delivers on their promises.