A landscape is an investment, not an impulse purchase. We encourage you to take your time and get to know the company.
When you hire a professional to work on your property, you should feel assured that they can deliver what they promised. And you certainly shouldn’t feel nervous that you might be left with a disaster that you paid for (and have to keep paying for).
As you consider your many options for landscaping companies in Bradenton, feel free to ask questions and gather as much information as you can. Here are some helpful ways to learn more about who you’re dealing with.
How long has your company been in business in Bradenton? What are your qualifications?
You want to get a sense of experience and training, and you certainly want someone who is familiar working with the local climate, soil, etc. Additionally, landscapers can learn a lot over the years about the long-term viability of their designs, weather patterns, and other aspects of the industry that we learn after years of experience.
Plus, longstanding businesses have a demonstrated investment in the community. It’s a sign that they’re not going anywhere, which comes with a sense of accountability.
(FYI, Big South has been a locally owned Bradenton landscaper since 2013.)
What are your certifications, licenses and insurance? What are your safety policies?
Florida doesn’t require landscaping licenses, but a licensed landscaping contractor proves the level of knowledge and experience you’re getting.
Manatee County, however, does require a certification for all landscaping professionals, which assures we’re adhering to best practices for the industry.
Safety practices and insurance policies, including liability insurance and workers compensation, mitigate the risks not only for your landscape but for yourself. You don’t want to be held liable for injuries that happen on your property.
(Big South is licensed, insured, and certified.)
What do you specialize in? How frequently do you work on projects similar to mine?
Not all landscaping projects are the same. Sometimes there are practical differences in the way various plants are installed, and sometimes it’s just a matter of style. Hire a Bradenton landscaper who can give you the results that suit you.
(Big South specializes in residential and commercial design projects and maintenance on properties of all sizes. We also offer irrigation installation and repair, as well as tree trimming and clean-outs.)
Do you partner with certain companies or brands? What kinds of equipment do you use?
Professional partnerships demonstrate accountability. Brands don’t want to be associated with poor workmanship, so they’ll check in on those companies that use their name.
Can you show me photos of projects you’ve done that are similar to my property?
It can be difficult to know that you’re on the same page with your landscaper through conversation alone. Computer-generated mock-ups give you an idea, but real-world photos can assure you that the landscaper knows what you want and can deliver it.
Who will be performing the work on my property?
In some companies, there’s a disconnect between the person who sells you the plan and the people who perform the work. How can they make promises about workmanship if they don’t even know who’s working? Plus it’s disconcerting to have strangers show up on your property.
Do you offer guarantees for your work?
It’s one thing to talk a big game, but when all is said and done, you want to see results. Ask about policies that give you some productive course of action if the final product doesn’t fit what was promised.
