Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine, March 2022

Page 22

Expert Contributor by TJ Warner JHL Landscaping

10

Questions to Ask a Landscape Designer

Professional landscapers provide many services, including planning the design of your plants and flowers, analyzing your soil and yard, planting and maintenance, and sometimes even hardscape and lighting design and installation. Here are 10 questions to ask before choosing a landscaping contractor for a project you’re considering. 1. How long have you been in the landscape business? While it’s not always a bad idea to hire someone who is just starting out, more experience doesn’t always equal better service. A contractor who has at least ten years of experience is more likely to have a proven track record. 2. Do you provide worker’s compensation insurance to your employees? Accidents can be costly for both of you, which is why it’s important that a landscaper carry the insurance that covers any work-related injuries that occur on your property. 3. Do you carry liability insurance? Liability insurance ensures that if your contractor breaks or damages something on your property, he or she will cover the cost to fix it. 4. What professional organizations do you belong to? Membership in associations such as the local Chamber of Commerce or industry professional organizations show that a landscape contractor is interested in maintaining a positive image and that they’re keeping up with the industry’s trends and standards. 5. Can I see a list of references and examples of your work? Ask for referrals from your potential landscaping contractor, preferably from clients who have had landscaping projects similar to the one you’re planning.

Photos courtesy of JHL Landscaping

6. Do you build and install according to industry standards? Before speaking to a potential landscaper, research what the industry standards are for your project. Whether it's a stone, paving, concrete or plant project, your contractor should know the industry standards and know to build to at least the minimum standards. 7. How do you work with your clients on a day-to-day basis? Good communication between both customer and contractor is crucial. A contractor should communicate with you daily about your project. Establish what time works best for you both, and determine if you want to meet on-site every day. 8. Does your contract include a payment schedule, project details, a timeline, pricing and how to resolve disputes? Having a landscaping contract that lays out these details will prevent miscommunication between you and your contractor. 9. Are your cost estimates typically on target? Asking this question lets your contractor know that keeping to a budget is critical for this project. 10. What happens if something breaks or a plant dies after the project is done? Ask your contractor if there is a warranty for materials and workmanship, and if so, how long does the warranty last? Asking these key questions helps clarify which landscape contractor best fits your needs. Ultimately, every contractor wants satisfied clients, so a good fit between the company and the customer is a win/win! NS

Newtown Square’s Expert Landscaper Can Help You Prepare for Spring!

Ask about our

Design Consultation! When price is important and quality is a MUST! 22

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors

March 2022

www.JHLLandscaping.com

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610 - 356- 4104


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