So you have a new garden or a front lawn that’s in need of some care. But maybe you’ve mowed a lawn before, or you know your plants and flowers. You may be thinking: is there a need for a landscaper?
Deciding when to hire a landscaper can depend on many factors, including your needs, budget, and the time of the year. Here are some reasons when hiring a landscaper may be more advantageous for you.
1. Starting a new landscaping project
If you’re planning to create a new garden, install a patio, or make any big changes in your lawn or yard, then hiring a landscaper can ensure that this work is done professionally and efficiently. A good landscaper can also help you design your space well, accounting for your preferences, property features, and existing regulations.
2. Lack of time or expertise
If you don’t have the time, knowledge, or skills to maintain your lawn or garden properly, you can hire a landscaper to handle regular maintenance tasks. With your outdoor space in great shape, all you need to do is relax!
Expertise can be site-specific and not wholly related to landscaping technique; instead, they can be about regulations and bylaws. For example, in Vancouver, there are guides on what are the invasive plants in the area, on topsoil, on hours when heavy machines can be operated, and on watering especially in very warm temperatures. And there are more and more documents, so it can be overwhelming to learn about them.
3. Seasonal clean-up
You don’t have to hire a landscaper on a yearly basis. Sometimes, for your needs, seasonal hires are sufficient. Spring and fall are common times to get a landscaper, to mow the lawn, rake the leaves, and perhaps get a new installation or add plants in preparation for the upcoming season.
4. Pest or disease control
If your garden has pests or diseases that you are unable to manage, a landscaper can help you diagnose the problem and provide appropriate solutions. This also applies to unrelenting weeds and other invasive plants, as there are also recommendations on how to effectively rid your garden of these problematic species.
5. Selling or renting property
Should you be planning to sell or rent out your property, investing in professional landscaping can increase curb appeal and the value of your home.
When to hire a landscaper
When hiring a landscaper, you need to consider several factors as to the timing.
Do you have a deadline for the project or work you have in mind? It is always best to start early and start looking for quotes. This way, you allow yourself ample time to decide who to hire and for them to finish their work.
If you intend to hire a landscaper on a year-long basis, you will need to consider how much work will need to be done throughout the year. For example, will you need snow removal in the winter, or do you live in a place where the grass still grows at this time? You also need to verify if the landscaping company you are interested in offers seasonal services appropriate for what you need. In some cases, less work may have to be done in the winter, and so your fees averaged for all twelve months may also be less.
Finally, once you’ve ensured that you have thought about your budget and the scope of your project, you may be ready to hire a landscaper.
How to hire a landscaper
It goes without saying that you would want to hire a great landscaper. But knowing whether he or she is good and trustworthy can require some research and evaluation. Here are some steps you can take when choosing who to hire.
1. Check their portfolio
Most companies nowadays have a website and/or social media presence. Use this to look at their previous work and projects completed. Reviewing these will give you an idea of their style, quality of work, and attention to detail.
2. Ask for references and reviews
While you can look up landscaper reviews online, it is preferable to request references from the landscaper you’re inclined to hire, and then reach out to past clients to ask about their satisfaction with the work done. This can provide valuable insights into the landscaper’s reliability and professionalism.
3. Assess their knowledge, expertise, and communication skills
Ask your potential landscaper about their experience, training, and areas of expertise. He or she should be able to offer suggestions and solutions according to what you need. Through this, you can also see if he or she is responsive to your inquiries, can answer your questions, and is listening to your ideas and concerns. This is important because effective communication is necessary to bring about this project to fruition and to meet your expectations.
4. Request for detailed quotes and contracts
A well-written quote for the project should outline the scope of work, materials to be used, labor costs, and timelines. A contract also sets clear expectations for the project and from you and the landscaper. The quote also lets you see if the landscaper has transparent pricing methods and is clear about any potential additional costs that arise.
5. Professionalism and appearance
It may seem minor, but you should pay attention to the appearance of the landscaper and their team. Do they look well-presented and organized? Do they have working equipment and a truck to carry what they need? How they appear likely reflects the extent of care they put into their work.
Depending on where you live, there may be required certificates, licenses, liability insurance, and warranties from your landscaper. Should this be the case, you should also inquire about the necessary documentation. Doing so will ensure the legitimacy and reputability of the landscaper’s operations.
By taking these steps, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a landscaper for your project.
Have more questions?
Contact us at Likas Landscaping to discuss your landscaping needs! We can offer you personalized solutions that will fit your preferences and budget.
