What to Look for in Landscaping Companies Near Me in Monroe NY
A landscape upgrade, whether it’s a small change or a complete makeover, can significantly increase the value of your home. Choosing the right landscaping company to ensure a satisfying result is not always easy. Here’s what to look for in landscaping companies near you in Monroe, NY.
Related: How a Landscaper Can Simplify Your Outdoor Living in Monroe, NY
Before hiring the lowest bidder - and you should always get several bids - consider that “you get what you pay for.” A low bidder may be new to the business. They may have exceptional skills, but depending on the scope of your project, they may lack the resources to bring it to completion successfully. That’s not to say you should “never” hire the lowest bidder or a new company, but be aware that a low bid usually signals trouble down the road. Here’s why:
1. Landscaping companies will factor the cost of licensing fees, insurance, and professional memberships into their bids. All of these are expensive. A very low bid often signifies that the company or individual isn’t licensed, doesn’t carry the required insurance, and/or doesn’t belong to professional organizations. While these qualities do not guarantee a successful project, they do improve the chances because licensed professionals have undergone testing and other requirements to prove their competency. Keeping a license or certification current means ongoing testing. A willingness to go through these annual certifications means that the landscape contractor is a dedicated professional committed to customer satisfaction and quality work. Current membership in a professional organization is optional, but it demonstrates an interest in maintaining a positive professional image and being an industry leader through continuous improvement.
2. ALWAYS ask for proof of current insurance from all bidders before they do a site visit. If they can’t provide proof of current insurance, walk away. Don’t ever allow uninsured landscapers on your premises, for your own security. Liability and workers’ compensation insurance are necessary to protect both you and the landscape contractor in case something goes wrong. This can include contractors disappearing mid-project, workers getting injured on the site, or property damage as a result of the work being done. Without such insurance, you will be stuck picking up the tab!
3. Always ask to talk to past customers, read online reviews, and, wherever possible, ask to see examples of completed and ongoing projects in person.
4. Trust the first impression. If a landscape contractor shows up in a beat-up pickup and a ratty old t-shirt, and uses homeowner-grade equipment, what does that say about the quality of the work? Heed the old adage, “As I am with one thing, I am with everything!” A landscape contractor who takes pride in his or her business will demonstrate that pride through first impressions and well-maintained professional equipment.
5. Listen to what’s not being said. A reputable landscape contractor won’t be afraid to tell you if a project is outside their scope of capabilities. They will either decline the project, or demonstrate commitment to you by working with specialists who can fill in the gaps of their knowledge and expertise. When a landscape company bites off more than it can chew, the homeowner will inevitably suffer.
We recommend focusing your attention on landscaping companies that can demonstrate knowledge and expertise as well as outstanding customer service. You want to rest easy knowing you can trust your landscaping company to upgrade and maintain your landscape - whether they’re changing out the look of your front entry walkway and mowing the lawn, or doing a complete makeover and doing all of your landscape maintenance.