Key Considerations Before Hiring an Austin Landscape Contractor
Hiring an Austin landscape contractor is a big decision that deserves more consideration than most property owners and managers give it. The best landscape contractor will bring your vision to life, exceeding all expectations by delivering finished results that truly meet your needs. Meanwhile, an inexperienced company may leave you with a landscape that’s dull, boring, and unhealthy. So, how do you choose the right Austin landscaping company for the job? Here are a few things to consider.
How Much Experience Should a Landscape Contractor Have?
Only stick with experienced landscape companies in Austin. More specifically, choose companies with expertise in projects similar to yours. For example, if your ideas incorporate outdoor lighting or decking, you don’t want to choose a landscape contractor that only knows how to work with plants.
The more years of experience, the better. Landscaping takes time to learn. Those landscaping companies that have served your community for many years are more likely to deliver the quality you deserve.
Should I Ask a Landscaping Company for a Portfolio of Past Work?
Absolutely! The quality you can expect from landscaping companies in Austin varies wildly. The best way to gauge a contractor’s capabilities is to see what types of work they’ve produced in the past.
While you’re at it, request a list of references as well. References can provide more insight into your experience working with the landscaping companies you’re considering. They can also let you know how the work they produced is holding up.
Is It Worth Reading Online Reviews About the Contractor I’m Considering?
Online reviews are a valuable resource. Please take advantage of them! While a landscaping company will tell you all the great things they’ve done, they’re not going to mention the times when projects went off the rails. To understand what you can expect, you need an unbiased perspective. Online reviews are a fantastic way to get it.
Check out reviews to see what past clients think of the Austin landscaping company you want to hire. You’ll gain substantial insight into their experience, empowering you to make an informed decision.
How Important Is Communication When Hiring a Landscape Contractor in Austin?
The best landscape contractor will prioritize communication. Because landscaping is a highly personalized service, you need reliability and transparency. Unfortunately, not all contractors will provide them.
During your conversations with landscaping companies in Austin, inquire about their communication style. Request more information about how they discuss project details, how often they’ll communicate during the process, and who your point of contact is.
Does an Austin Landscape Contractor Need Proper Licensing?
In Texas, there is no state-wide license for landscaping. However, landscaping companies in Austin must register their business with the city. Depending on the type of work the company does, they may also need to obtain licensing for irrigation, fertilizer usage, commercial work, and more.
Request business information and cross-reference it with the city. You want to ensure that you’re working with a legitimate landscaping company that operates above board, not a fly-by-night amateur.
What About Insurance?
While not always mandated by law, the best landscape contractor will have comprehensive insurance to protect themselves and you. Insurance provides financial protection in the worst-case scenario. Request proof of insurance before hiring any Austin landscaping companies.
What Kinds of Questions Should I Ask a Landscape Contractor Before Hiring Them?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial meeting with a landscape contractor in Austin. You can ask about:
• Materials
• Work processes
• Techniques
• Ongoing maintenance
• Project history
• Licensing
• Insurance
• Warranties
• Equipment
• Subcontractors
• Project timelines
Use their answers to compare and contrast landscape companies in Austin. More importantly, use these conversations to gauge a company’s commitment to strong communication. Any contractor who refuses to engage or doesn’t answer your questions may be hiding behind inexperience. Additionally, that lack of communication doesn’t bode well for your experience as a paying client.
What Should I Expect When Receiving a Quote from a Landscape Contractor in Austin?
Quotes you receive from a landscape contractor should be comprehensive, detailing everything from materials and labor costs to timeline expectations and more. Never accept a bare-bones quote without information about where your money is going. Read contracts and quotes carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask any questions for additional clarification.
When you need an Austin landscaping company you can count on, turn to Sullivan’s Landscaping & Lawn Services. We’ve served Central Texas for well over a decade, producing beautiful results for our residential and commercial clients. We’re fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind and offer reasonable rates.
Our services include landscape design and installation, irrigation, outdoor lighting, artificial turf, lawn care, property clean-ups, decking, and more. We also offer free project quotes. You can get yours by calling Sullivan’s at (512) 599-4565, emailing customerservice@sullivanslandscapingservice.com, or submitting your information through our online callback form.
