When to DIY and when to call in the experts.
Not every landscaping job is a DIY project. Chapter 21 helps you decide which tasks to tackle yourself and which to hire out, plus how to find, vet, and work with contractors.
First, a reality check: The authors suggest you hire out any job that (a) requires heavy equipment (skid steers, trenchers), (b) involves electrical or plumbing work, (c) requires a permit you don’t understand, or (d) would take you three times as long as a pro. Conversely, DIY jobs like planting annuals, spreading mulch, and simple pruning save money and give you satisfaction.
The chapter identifies three types of landscaping professionals. Landscape designers (often working at nurseries) create plans but don’t build. Landscape contractors build patios, walls, and irrigation. Landscape architects are licensed professionals for complex projects (grading, drainage, commercial work). For most homeowners, a designer or contractor is sufficient.
Finding a good contractor requires research. Ask friends for referrals. Check online reviews but read the 1‑star and 3‑star reviews carefully (5‑star reviews are often fake). Verify licenses and insurance (liability and workers’ comp). The book includes a sample contract checklist: scope of work, materials, timeline, payment schedule, warranty, and cleanup.
Never hire the lowest bid without scrutiny. A suspiciously low bid may indicate low quality materials, unlicensed work, or financial trouble (they’ll ask for cash upfront then disappear). Get at least three bids, and compare apples to apples.
Payment terms: never pay full upfront. A typical schedule is 10‑20% deposit, 30‑40% at milestone (e.g., after excavation), and the remainder upon completion and your approval. Contractors who demand 50% or more upfront are red flags.
Working with a contractor means clear communication. Put everything in writing. Take before photos. Visit the site daily. If something looks wrong, speak up immediately—it’s easier to fix before the concrete sets.
Pro tip: A good contractor is worth every penny. A bad contractor is a nightmare. Do your homework.
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