How do I ensure I'm hiring a good landscaper at an affordable price?
When looking for good landscaper, make sure you:
Verify their license and insurance: Make sure any landscaper you hire is licensed and has liability insurance so you’re protected if they damage your property. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research.
Get several estimates: Getting at least three estimates can help you compare prices and find a landscaper who fits your budget.
Take time of year into account: If you hire a landscaper in the winter, you may get more affordable rates.
Consider negotiating: Don't hesitate to negotiate, especially if you have lower estimates from other companies. There's no harm in asking for lower rates, seeing if a pro can match a competing quote or inquiring about other perks.
Find out if they have deals, discounts or packages to lower costs: Some landscapers offer package deals for grass cutting, tree or bush trimming and other work. Asking about deals and discounts can help you save money.
Look for red flags: If a landscaper is far cheaper than all the others, it could be a red flag. Estimates should be comparable, and licensing and insurance information should be current. That can help you verify that you're hiring an affordable, trustworthy professional.
For more tips, visit Thumbtack's Smart Hiring page.
What are some of the most affordable landscaping options?
The most budget-friendly landscaping options are generally native to your area, take a start-small approach and are easy to maintain. Here's why:
Native plants often require less effort: If you choose plants native to your area, they will typically grow with less additional work or support (for example, cacti in desert climates).
Small plants are usually less expensive: Even if you want large bushes and trees, buying small and giving them time to grow can keep costs down.
Low-maintenance landscaping is more budget-friendly: Landscaping that doesn't require much maintenance will cost less overall, whether you maintain it yourself or hire a pro.
Hardscaping or xeriscaping are valuable options: Many people choose gravel, mulch, crushed rock and salvaged bricks to create pathways and similar spaces, reducing the number of plants to care for and the amount of grass to mow.
You can often use some of what you already have: You may be able to repurpose items for yard decoration, lighting or planting to enhance your outdoor space.
Should I tell my landscaper my budget upfront?
Yes, you should share your budget with your landscaper. Your landscaper can help you find affordable landscaping materials and features that fit your budget. They can also give you tips on how to create a low-maintenance yard with hardscaping features and native plants.
Is it cheaper to do my own landscaping or should I hire a pro?
While it might seem less expensive to do your own landscaping, hiring a pro is usually the best option. When deciding between DIY vs. hiring a professional, consider the following:
Pros have all of the necessary tools: If you don’t have the right shovels, shears or mower, you might want to hire a professional.
Pros can help with permits: Some landscaping projects — like building a large retaining wall, fence or deck — may require a permit. A local pro is familiar with local codes and regulations and can help you pull permits for your project.
Pros may offer warranties: DIY projects don’t come with warranties. Landscape warranties offer peace of mind. They often cover different types of vegetation (grass, plants, trees, etc.) that the pro may replace at no cost if it dies.
How can I estimate my landscaping costs?
Here are a few ways you might be able to estimate your landscaping costs:
Contact local pros: A landscape contractor can estimate the cost of your project. They may need to first visit your property and complete an onsite consultation.
Know the scope of your project: The best way to estimate your landscaping costs is to know the amount and type of work you want done and how long the job will take. Then, you can focus on pricing materials and labor.
Understand what materials will be used: The materials you choose can significantly affect the cost of your landscaping job, so consider options that fit your budget.
Explore average labor costs for your area: Not every landscaper charges the same, but they should all be similar. If you know the approximate labor costs for landscapers in your area, you'll have a better idea of the overall price of your project.
Why are some landscapers so expensive?
Some landscapers are more expensive because of their experience or reputation. The size, scope and difficulty of your landscaping job can significantly impact the price as well. The biggest factors driving up landscaping costs are:
Location: Narrow areas, overhead power lines, slopes and difficult access points can all raise the price of a landscaping job, as the landscaper must figure out how to work around these obstacles.
The number and size of plants: Larger plants not only cost more, but they take longer to plant. Landscapers may also charge more for more plants due to the length of time required to install them.
The complexity of the design: A complex design plan requires the landscaper's time to ensure you're happy with the final result. The landscaper will also research and suggest materials and other options.
The expertise of the landscaper: If a landscaper has many years in business or is well-known for their style and abilities, you can generally expect to pay more for their services.