Looking to do some substantial work on your backyard this spring? If so, you are probably exploring your options for local landscaping contractors and wondering where to start. We hear you—finding the right team for the job can be a challenge! But with a couple of simple tips, it might not be as hard as it seems. Keep reading to learn more!
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before you contact any landscaping company, you should have a clear vision. Reflect on your dream yard and determine your goals. Are you looking for a full revamp, including a new patio, pathways, lighting, landscaping, and more? Or do you just want a couple of simple upgrades to round out your space?
Next, define your budget. While you don’t need to map out every single cost at this stage, you should have a rough idea of how much you are willing to spend. This will help your contractor draft designs that you can actually afford, rather than spending time on added features and details outside of your scope.
Step 2: Be Proactive
Good landscaping construction takes time, especially for larger projects. That’s why we recommend being proactive. As a rule of thumb in Ottawa, if you want construction to start in spring or early summer, you should begin reaching out to landscaping contractors a couple of months ahead of time. That buffer gives you time for:
- Initial consultations and property walk-throughs
- Design discussions and revisions
- Detailed quoting and scope alignment
- Permits when required (common for decks/structures)
- Material delivery and contractor scheduling
Step 3: Make a Shortlist
Not all landscaping contractors specialize in the same type of work. Before requesting quotes, narrow your list to companies that are genuinely suited to your project. Look for contractors who:
- Have recent projects similar to yours
- Clearly explain their services (construction, design-build, maintenance, etc.)
- Are transparent about timelines and availability
- Have positive Google reviews
Step 4: Review Quotes
Getting multiple quotes for your project is always a good idea. When you receive these estimates, pay attention to them. They can be the key differentiator between an excellent landscaping and an average one.
The best companies offer comprehensive quotes that include crucial details, including:
- Approximate dimensions and layout
- Materials and finish levels
- Scope of work, including excavation, base preparation, drainage, edging, and cleanup
- Assumptions and exclusions that could affect the price
- How changes or unforeseen conditions will be handled
If your quote simply says “patio,” this is a red flag. These missing details lead to unclear project scopes and details, which can turn into major headaches down the line.
Step 5: Ask Questions
Once you’ve reviewed a few quotes, it’s time to ask some direct questions. Prioritize what matters to you most, which could include:
- Process: Who will be working on my property? What about the main point of contact? How are weather conditions and scheduling delays handled?
- Project Changes: How are weather conditions and scheduling delays handled? How do changes impact my overall budget? How do project approval updates work?
- Insurance and relevant certifications: Are your workers insured? Do they possess any relevant certifications that I should be aware of?
All these questions and more will provide key information on how to choose the contractor who is the best fit for your project.
Partner with NeighborScape Today!
Ready to get started building your dream project? The NeighborScape team is here to help. From expert deck builds to seamless softscaping that adapts with the seasons, we’ve been creating stunning outdoor living spaces for over 15 years. Explore some of our past projects or contact us today for more information!
