Choosing the Right Landscaping Pro: Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask

Imagine this: You finally decide it’s time to transform your backyard, install a new fire pit, or just take control of the weeds. You want someone who “gets it”—but choosing a landscaping pro can feel like picking a seed and hoping for a tree. Some grow. Some don’t.

Your home deserves more than guesswork. At Andrew’s Acres Landscaping, we’ve spent years listening to homeowners tell stories—both good and bad—about their experiences. Let’s make sure yours is one you’re proud to share.

Why Hiring the Right Landscaper Matters 🌱

Landscaping isn’t just about mowing grass or throwing down some mulch. It’s about trust. About inviting someone into your space—sometimes for weeks at a time. It’s about turning your yard into a place where memories are made, not headaches.

Get it right, and you’ll enjoy beautiful garden beds, sturdy patios, and walkways that welcome you home. Get it wrong, and you could face costly repairs, plants that fail, or a job that drags on and on.

Hiring the right landscaper is like laying a strong foundation for your house. Do it carefully, and everything else falls into place.

Key Questions to Ask Before Signing

Start with a conversation, not a contract. Here are essential questions to ask every landscaping pro—whether you’re looking for garden bed design near you or a complete landscape renovation.

1. How much experience do you have with projects like mine?

• Ask for specific examples: “Have you installed outdoor kitchens or water features before?”
• Request photos or references from similar jobs.
• Listen for clear, confident answers—not just “We’ve done that before.”

2. Are you insured and licensed locally?

• Verify that the company carries liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
• Double-check for any required state or local licenses (especially for hardscaping, irrigation, or electrical work for outdoor lighting).
• Ask to see certificates, not just words.

3. Who will be working on my property?

• Will there be a crew supervisor on site?
• Are employees background-checked and trained?
• Get names if possible—and ask about subcontractors.

4. What is your process for planning and executing the project?

• How do you handle design changes or unexpected issues?
• What’s the communication plan—calls, emails, texts?
• Will you provide a detailed timeline and scope of work?

5. Can you provide a written estimate and contract?

• Is every service (like mulching, irrigation, or pest control) clearly listed?
• Are materials and labor costs separated?
• Are payment terms, warranties, and cleanup included?

6. What happens if I’m not satisfied?

• How do you address concerns or incomplete work?
• Is there a process for handling disputes?
• What warranties or guarantees are offered—and in writing?

7. May I contact past clients for references?

• Reliable landscapers are proud of their work and eager to share.
• Beware if a contractor hesitates or offers only one old contact.

Red Flags and Trust Signals 🚩

A beautiful portfolio is great. But you need more than pretty pictures. Watch for these warning signs:

• Vague or missing estimates: If the numbers keep changing or details are thin, pause.
• No references: Everyone should have at least a handful of happy clients.
• Pushy sales tactics: Pressure to “sign today for a discount” is a red flag.
• No proof of insurance or licensing: Never accept “We’re covered, don’t worry.”
• Unclear communication: If you struggle to get answers now, it won’t get easier later.

On the flip side, look for landscapers who:

• Provide everything in writing—estimates, contracts, and warranties.
• Are transparent about who’s doing the work.
• Have clear, consistent communication from the first call to the final walk-through.

How to Compare Bids and Portfolios

Prices can vary—sometimes wildly. Don’t just grab the lowest number and run. Slow down. Look closer.

Reviewing Bids

• Apples to apples: Are you comparing the same set of services? One bid might include soil testing, while another skips it.
• Materials: Are they using premium pavers or basic concrete? Is sod high-quality and locally sourced?
• Timeline: Some landscapers can start next week, others in a month. Ask why.
• Payment schedule: Look for fair terms—never pay in full before work begins.

Evaluating Portfolios

• Before-and-after photos: Do you see projects like yours? Look for consistency.
• Details: Quality is in the finish—edges, plant health, lighting placement.
• Reviews: Read online reviews, but also ask for direct client contacts.

Contracts, Communication, and Warranties

A handshake is friendly. A contract is protection.

• Detailed contracts: Should cover scope, materials, start/end dates, payment terms, and what happens if plans change.
• Communication style: Do you get updates regularly? Is there a single point of contact?
• Warranties: Ask about plant survival, hardscaping durability, and any maintenance follow-ups.

Local Licensing, Certifications, and Clear Expectations

Laws and requirements change from town to town. In some places, a landscaper needs a local license to install irrigation or hardscaping. In others, insurance requirements are strict.

• Ask about certifications from professional groups like the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) or state-specific organizations.
• Even if licensing isn’t required, responsible landscapers will know local building codes, safety guidelines (like those from OSHA), and permit processes.
• Set clear expectations: Discuss access, noise, pets, and project hours up front.

Practical Tips for Homeowners

• Walk your property with the landscaper before signing.
• Get all promises in writing.
• Don’t pay for the whole job upfront.
• Keep a copy of all documents.
• Check that your expectations for garden bed design, walkway installation, or patio work are crystal clear.

Conclusion

Choosing the right landscaping professional isn’t just about price. It’s about trust, clarity, and a shared vision for your home. By asking the right questions and paying attention to the answers, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and set the stage for a yard you’ll love for years.

Call Andrew's Acres Landscaping now — or reach us anytime at  888-806-1708 .