How to Hire a Landscaper (and What to Ask First)

Landscaping spans a wide range of work, and the right professional depends on what you want. A reliable landscaper can improve curb appeal, manage drainage and make your yard easier to maintain. Here is how to find one.

Know the different types of providers

Lawn care and maintenance companies mow, edge, fertilize and do seasonal cleanup on a recurring schedule.
Landscape contractors install plants, patios, walkways, retaining walls, lighting and irrigation.
Landscape designers and architects create the plan. Some also build, while others hand the plan to a contractor.
Arborists specialize in trees: pruning, removal and health.

Hiring the wrong type for the job is a common mistake. A mowing crew may not be the right choice for a patio, and a designer may not do the weekly upkeep.

Start with your goals and budget

Decide what you want: a low-maintenance yard, outdoor living space, privacy, better drainage or a fresh look. Walk the property, take photos and collect a few images you like. Set a budget range, and ask for bids that allow phasing, since many projects can be done in stages.

Check credentials

Requirements vary by location. Some states license landscape contractors, especially for work involving irrigation, structures or pesticide application. Ask for:

A license number, where required, and verify it.
Proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation.
Any applicator certification if they will apply pesticides or herbicides.
References and photos of similar completed projects.

Questions to ask

Who will be on my property, and are they your employees or subcontractors?
What is included in the price: materials, plants, soil, delivery, cleanup and disposal?
Who handles permits or utility marking before digging? Calling your local utility-locating service before digging is a standard safety step.
What kind of plants do you recommend for my sun, soil and climate?
What warranty do you offer on plants and workmanship? Many guarantee plants for a limited time if you water properly.
How long will the project take, and what could delay it?
What ongoing care will the new landscaping need?

Compare bids carefully

Ask each landscaper to bid the same scope. Compare plant sizes and quantities, materials such as pavers or mulch type, and what is left out. A lower price may reflect smaller plants, thinner base materials or no cleanup. For larger projects, ask for a design drawing or a written plant list.

Watch for red flags

A request for large payments up front or all in cash.
No written contract or vague scope.
Door-to-door solicitation offering "leftover materials" at a discount.
Willingness to skip a permit or utility check.
Unrealistically fast timelines or very low prices.

Think about drainage and maintenance

A beautiful plan can fail if water collects near the house or plants need more care than you can give. Ask how the design handles runoff. Our guide to fixing yard drainage problems explains why this matters.

Get it in writing

Use a written contract that lists the scope, materials, price, payment schedule, timeline and warranty. Our guide to reading a contractor quote and contract applies to landscaping jobs too.

With clear goals and a careful hiring process, your yard can become an outdoor space you enjoy for years.