When you’re shopping for a service provider, it can be hard to pick out the bad ones because they’re all putting their best foot forward. The issue is compounded by the average person’s lack of experience in judging the quality of work or the work ethic of a contractor. However, it is possible to spot the warning signs before you hire them to rip out your current landscaping. Here are four signs you’re dealing with a bad landscaping designer.
A Lack of Communication
If you had trouble getting hold of the contractor or there were multiple back and forth discussions before you had your first meeting, don’t expect that to change after you’re paying them money. This is why a lack of communication at the very start is a reason not to hire them. You shouldn’t have to worry about missed appointments, surprise charges or unplanned deliveries.
If you did communicate with them and they didn’t show up on time, that’s a sign they don’t respect you. If they’re late but with excuses, you probably don’t want to repeat these conversations while work is underway. If they won’t listen to you, you won’t get the garden you wanted. If they only inform you about things at the last minute, it may be because they’re disorganized, but it puts your project and budget at risk.
A Bad Attitude
If they have an unprofessional attitude, you probably don’t want to work with them. If they’re pressuring you to sign a contract, rip it up and ask them to leave. After all, you’re legally obligated to pay for the scope of work on the contract no matter what someone says. If they seem to rush through your interview, you have reason to wonder about their quality of work. A landscaping contractor who railroaded other clients, building what they thought was best, probably isn’t going to follow your plans, either.
A Lack of Paperwork
If they give you a run-around when you ask about licenses and insurance, that’s not a failure in communication, it is a sign that they aren’t licensed or bonded. And you don’t want to be at risk if they don’t finish the work or if someone gets hurt. If they don’t provide you with a formal, written cost estimate, that is reason enough not to hire them. In short, you shouldn’t even consider doing business with someone who doesn’t meet the legally mandated minimum requirements to do business with you. If they cut these corners, what else will they cut? If they won’t commit to a design plan and schedule, you probably want to find another landscaper. After all, if they only talked in generalities, they could build almost anything and charge you for it.
For comparison, good landscaping companies like KG Landscape will show you their license to operate and insurance paperwork as well as provide a free, written quote. They offer a wide range of services, and they’ll price the job right no matter how big or small it is.
Conclusion
Take the time to ask questions and vet potential landscaping contractors. Then you won’t waste your money on a bad landscaping contractor. Instead, you’ll enjoy the experience and your new yard.
