Choosing A Landscaper

If you're thinking of re-landscaping, take a few precautions before choosing a landscape contractor.

Though I'm not in the business any longer, I've had the opportunity to landscape everythng from the smallest of yards to more than 28-acre resorts. I asked a few of my past customers what they looked for in a landscape contractor, and I think you should do the same -- for your own protection.

You see, the second someone loses their job, all of a sudden they turn into landscapers. With a pick and shovel in hand, they go at it. Some are good, most are bad.

Look at a landscapers' past work history. Ask for references, and call those references up. Ask if they came to the job when they said they would. Did they leave the job every night a mess, or was it left in a tidy fashion? Interview your landscaper a few times before choosing. This way, you can get a better feel whether or not the both of you are compatible. Your landscape, when properly done, can increase the value of your property 10 to 25 percent. So choose your landscaper carefully!