Selecting a company to design and build your custom landscape is the single most important decision you will make in your project. A great contractor can turn your vision into a beautiful, lasting reality, while a poor one can lead to frustration, budget overruns, and a low-quality result. But with so many options, how do you choose? It takes a bit of research, but a few key steps can help you find a truly professional and reliable team. When you partner with a high-caliber firm like LARKIN LANDSCAPE, you are choosing a partner for a major construction project, and they should be vetted as such.
The first step is to look at their portfolio of work. A picture is truly worth a thousand words. A professional custom landscaping company will have an extensive, high-quality portfolio of their completed projects. Do not just glance at the photos; study them. Do you see projects that are similar in scale to what you have in mind? Do you like their design style? Look for a wide range of work, including hardscaping like patios and walls, as well as complex planting designs. A strong, diverse portfolio is a sign of experience and a team that takes pride in its craftsmanship. If a company has few or no photos of their work, that is a significant red flag.
The next step is to verify their credentials. This is a non-negotiable step for your own protection. A professional landscaper is a contractor. They should be able to provide you with proof of two key things: general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability protects your property from any accidental damage, and workers' compensation protects you from being liable if one of their employees is injured on your job site. You should ask for a "certificate of insurance" sent directly from their insurance agent. This ensures the policy is active. Also, ask about any required state or local licenses and professional certifications, which demonstrate a commitment to their trade.
Once you have vetted their portfolio and insurance, it is time to check their references and reputation. Look for online reviews, but do not stop there. Ask the company for a list of recent clients—preferably from projects completed in the last year or two. Take the time to call these references and ask them specific questions. How was the communication throughout the project? Did the crew show up on time and keep the site clean? Did the project stay on budget and on schedule? Most importantly, how did the company handle any problems that inevitably came up? The way a team solves a problem is the true test of their professionalism.
The final step in your selection process is the consultation and proposal. A true professional will not give you a "quote" over the phone. They will insist on an on-site consultation to see the property, discuss your goals, and take detailed measurements. Pay attention to the questions they ask you. A good designer will be more interested in your lifestyle and how you want to use the space than in just "selling" you a patio. Afterward, you should receive a detailed, itemized proposal. A proposal that just says "Backyard landscaping: $20,000" is not acceptable. You need a document that breaks down the cost of materials, labor, and all the specific elements of the project. A thorough proposal is a sign of a thorough and professional company.
When you are searching for
custom landscaping near me,it is easy to be tempted by the lowest price. But a custom landscape is a long-term investment. It is better to choose a company based on their portfolio, professionalism, and the quality of their proposal.
Taking the time to follow these steps will help you find a qualified and trustworthy partner to create the outdoor space of your dreams. To work with a team that is fully insured, experienced, and professional, contact LARKIN LANDSCAPE.
