Landscape Contractor

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Q. I recently purchased a new house with an unfinished back yard and don't know who to call to put in the patio, deck, spa and lawn. Where do I start?

A. Just as you hire a general contractor to build your home, a licensed landscape contractor is qualified to perform all the functions to construct all the elements of a modern landscape.

These elements include grading and drainage, electrical for the spa and outdoor lights, plumbing for natural gas as well as water and sprinklers, concrete, masonry, decks and patio covers, swimming pools, water falls, fountains, and fencing.

And of course the lawns, shrubs and trees, installed with the expertise necessary to assure proper placement, growth and aesthetic appeal.

When hiring a contractor be sure to verify their licensing with the state contractors board, be sure their employees are covered by workers compensation insurance, and check several references.

Q. What if I cannot afford to do the whole project at once? Would it be acceptable to complete the project in phases.

A: Absolutely! However, if you want to break a job into separate phases it's more important than ever to start with an actual design on paper, or blueprint, to assure that everything is done in proper sequence. Also, if you hire a contractor to do the first phase and decide you are not satisfied with the work, you own the plan so you can more easily find a different contractor to do later phases.

To find a landscape contractor, please visit Service Magic, fill out a service request and let Service Magic help you locate the ideal service professional in your area!

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic