Home truths - Choosing a landscaper

Want a new garden by next summer? Well, now is the time to search for someone to do the job. Leave it until next spring and there may be only cowboys left to choose from. Follow these tips to get the best landscaper for the job.

When selecting a garden installer it is important you know what you are looking for. A designer does not construct the garden: garden installation is the domain of the landscape contractor. The majority of landscape contractors are capable of doing most, if not all, of the garden installation, but there are some who only specialise in certain areas. Soft-landscaping contractors deal with soil and plants whereas those who specialise in hard-landscaping, focus on building structures such as paving, decks, pergolas, walls and pools.

Firstly, let's consider how to find a landscape contractor. If you're like most folks you'll pick up the phone book and call someone with the most eye-catching advertisement. But will that person show up on time? Will they do a good job? Will they be trustworthy and charge fairly?

Choosing your landscaper from a local newspaper ad is definitely a no-go area - this is often the most preferred advertising option of the fly-by-nighters.

Searching the net is an option - and those companies that offer photo portfolios to view, at least, give you a glimpse of the scope of their work. But be aware that photos are normally shot in the most flattering angles and often don't reveal the finer details of workmanship.

The best way to start looking for the right landscaping professional is to ask friends, neighbours or work colleagues for recommendations. It's best to get several quotes for any job.

If you have no luck getting referrals, then check out a few home and garden magazines. These often have articles featuring well-designed gardens, which make mention of the landscaping firm that did the installation.

Websites such as www.landscapedesign.co.nz and www.lianz.co.nz can also be a good place to start your search.

One way of ensuring that you're getting a landscape professional, is to find a landscaper who is an accredited Lianz member. Lianz (Landscape Industries Association of New Zealand) is an active industry body representing more than 200 members who specialise in landscape design, construction and maintenance.

Your first point of contact will probably be a phone call - this is the time to check that the landscaper has the professional skills you are looking for. It is pointless meeting with someone whose expertise is in soft-landscaping when you want to build a pool. Remember many landscapers will get sub-contractors in for larger jobs - check whether they will take responsibility for the conduct and professionalism of their staff and subcontractors.

Ask the landscaper to bring along their portfolio to the first meeting. Don't be shy about asking if you can talk to previous clients or even look at a completed garden.

The most important thing about this first meeting is not only looking at the portfolio and getting the landscaper's feedback on the installation of your garden, it is about your gut feeling. Will you be able to work with this person on a daily basis, and communicate easily? If you think you will, it's time to ask for a quote.

Getting a quote is a different thing from getting an estimate. An estimate is only a ballpark figure and should not be taken as the final cost of the job. A quote should outline what work is to be done; start and finish dates; the hourly rate; the cost for materials and plants; and how long the quote is good for. A detailed quote can take time to put together so don't expect it the next day. Always ask for quotes in writing - if a problem arises you will have a record of what was agreed to.

For large-scale jobs, a contract between the client and landscaper is the best way to go - this should include details on price, materials, programming, guarantees and insurance.

If you follow these rules you should end up with a garden you'll be thrilled with.

Regina Wypych - Landscape designer

Contact Regina at Creative Solutions Garden Design, ph 027 235 9669.