| In your search for a landscape contractor you will find that some companies specialize in specific areas, (i.e.: maintenance), while others may perform a myriad of landscape services. Be sure the company you choose can backup the services they say they offer.
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| The first place to begin is with referrals from friends and neighbors who may have used a professional landscape contractor. You may consider contacting a property owner you are not aquatinted with who has an obviously pleasing, professionally landscaped property for a referral.
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| It is important to remember that landscaping, particularly landscape design and installation is not a commodity to which a price tag can be easily attached. Purchasing landscape design and installation services might better compare to purchasing art. Landscapes that are pleasing to the eye, functional and of lasting quality require professional design and installation. This is why many people choose to landscape their properties over a period of years rather than all at once. This allows them to budget adequate funds to complete their work properly using quality materials.
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In order to hire a professional landscape contractor you need to employ the following techniques of a professional buyer.
- Ask for and follow-up on references. This is the single most important point to hiring qualified contractors.
- Require proof of liability insurance and current workers compensation insurance prior to commencement of work.
- If fertilizer or pesticides are going to be applied, is the contractor licensed by the state of Georgia to safely apply such products.
- Examine written guarantees and follow up maintenance instructions.
- Call the Better Business Bureau.
- Find out what, if any, professional trade organizations the contractor belongs to (i.e.: Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), Metropolitan Atlanta Lawn and Turf Association (MALTA), Southern Nurseryman's Association (SNA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We belong to all of those mentioned.
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| Membership in professional trade organizations is a good indication of a contractor's preparedness to meet your hiring requirements and follow through with quality craftsmanship. The Association Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), Metropolitan Atlanta Lawn and Turf (MALTA), the Southern Nurseryman's Association (SNA), and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) all have requirements that their members include proof of: Liability Insurance, Workers Compensation Insurance, Georgia Pesticide Applicators license, as well as Trade and Job References.
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| While these trade organizations do not guarantee that members sustain these licenses or practice good customer service, membership is a good indication of the company's professionalism. Professional trade organizations like ALCA MALTA and SNA foster an environment for quality work and customer service through its publications and contractor seminars.
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