1. Know that You and Your Landscaper can Communicate
Landscapers, like architects and interior designers, are creative professionals. Part of their job is to help create an environment that has aesthetic appeal to their clients. Since we all have different tastes and preferences, it’s important to get to know your landscaper and feel confident you can communicate with them and that they will design a landscape for you that suits your tastes, not just theirs. A landscaper’s portfolio will tell you a lot about them, but they will also want to know about you and your tastes. An easy and inspiring way to do this is to find garden design ideas on our photo gallery section and make an inspiration board filled with all your favourite garden ideas. When you share your board with your landscape architect, they will be able to see what you want and incorporate elements of your design ideas into your garden.
2. Know that Your Landscaper is Qualified
A landscaper fresh out of an apprenticeship or university may be as qualified for your job as a more experienced landscaper, but no matter how many years of professional experience they have, they have to prove their qualifications to you. Is your landscaper licensed and insured? Without these basic qualifications, you’re taking a big risk when you let them start working on your property. Their quote, too, will say a lot about their qualifications. Every quote you get should be detailed in writing and include drawings and sketches to help you visualise what the job will look like when it is completed.
3. Know You Can Afford the Job
When you look at the garden ideas and outdoor living ideas on our photo pages, you may get carried away and visualise a landscape that is beyond your means. Discuss your budget with your landscaper before you get a quote and they will be able to design a landscape for you that will be both beautiful and affordable. Make sure there are no grey areas in the quotes you receive to protect you from any nasty surprises later on.
4. Know if Council Approval is Needed
Council approval is needed for a variety of landscaping projects. If yours is an extensive landscaping job that includes retaining walls or may have an impact on neighbouring properties, council approval will probably be necessary. Talk to your landscaper about this and find out if getting council approval is part of their service. Also find out how much approval is going to cost and include council a in your budget.
5. Know You Have Chosen the Right Landscaping Professional
When hiring any home improvement professional, never settle for just one quote. Get quotes from several landscapers first and then make an informed decision based on the services they provide, the cost of their services and their suitability for your job.
(source & images: High Pages)