What Questions to Ask a Landscaping Company Before Hiring Them
Hiring a landscaping company is more than just picking the first one you find online. Whether you're redesigning your backyard oasis or installing a small landscaping wall, the right landscaping business will make all the difference in your experience. So how do you choose the right one?
Before you sign a contract, here are key questions to ask a landscaping company to ensure you're hiring qualified, reliable professionals who can meet your needs and budget.
1. What Services Do You Offer?
This is a deal-breaker. A professional landscaping company should have proper insurance and be on Sun Biz. Hiring a handyman is one thing but when spending several thousands of dollars on your home, you want to hire a business that has proper insurance that protects you in case of accidents or property damage. At Bella Design Landscapes, we are used to working with HOA communities and can provide proof of insurance and you can find us on SunBiz!
2. Are You Insured and Registered with the State of Florida on SunBiz?
Landscaping companies vary—some focus only on maintenance while others offer landscape design. I’d like to think we don’t just offer design but specialize in it! We don’t just buy whatever plants are on sale at Lowe’s. We partner with select nurseries, asses your property and personally select plants that will grow best based on your property layout.
Ask questions like:
Do you offer design consultations?
Do you handle hardscaping (patios, retaining walls)?
Can you install lighting, irrigation, or water features?
This helps ensure their services align with your project goals.
3. Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work?
A reputable landscaping company should have a portfolio of past projects. Ask to see before-and-after photos or visit a local property they've worked on. Sometimes you can get lucky and see the neighbor outside and ask things like how was the communication or would you hire them again. We have a loaded portfolio and years worth of reviews we’d love to share with you!
Bonus: Check online reviews and ratings on sites like Google and Facebook. If they don’t have these types of platforms, it’s a bit of a red flag!
4. What Forms of Payment Do You Accept?
This can make a huge difference in who you use if the company doesn’t have a way to accept credit cards. We once had a client share a past experience with us that they had to cash in a Money Market account early because the owner didn’t advise they only accepted cash upfront.
5. Who Will Be Working on My Property?
Some companies use in-house teams, while others subcontract the work. It’s important to know:
Will there be a consistent crew on-site?
Is there a project manager or point of contact?
How often will they check in or provide updates?
Clear communication can make or break a project. We also take great pride in being the owners and involved from beginning to end and have a project manager to guide you along the way.
6. What Is the Estimated Timeline?
Ask for a realistic start date and completion timeline. Landscaping projects can be weather-dependent, but a professional should still give you an expected timeframe and keep you informed of any delays.
7. Do You Provide Written Estimates and Contracts?
Always request a detailed written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and any additional fees. A formal contract should include:
Scope of work
Payment schedule
Materials list
Project timeline
Warranty info
Never rely on a verbal agreement!
8. What Kind of Maintenance Will Be Required?
Once your landscape is installed, will it require ongoing care? Ask things like:
Do you offer maintenance services or have companies you recommend?
Are the plants and materials low-maintenance or high-maintenance? If you want low maintenance, make sure to share this upfront!
This will help you plan (and budget) for the future.
9. Do You Offer Any Guarantees or Warranties?
A good company will stand by their work. Ask about warranties!
10. What Sets You Apart From Other Landscaping Companies?
This question can help you gauge their passion, creativity, and attention to detail. Look for a company that’s enthusiastic about your project and eager to bring your vision to life.
Final Thoughts
The right landscaping company should be transparent, skilled, and easy to communicate with. Asking these questions up front can save you time, money, and frustration down the line—and help you create an outdoor space you’ll love for years to come!
