Consumer Resources

Choosing a landscape contractor?
Advice from the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado

Landscape installation work, including sprinkler systems and maintenance, can cost thousands of dollars. Using a qualified, professional contractor is a must to get value for your money and to help ensure a return on investment and increased property values. As the largest statewide association for landscape contractors, ALCC recommends the following advice in choosing the right contractor and services for your landscape.

What services do you want?

• Determine how the landscape will be used (entertaining, children’s play area, outdoor living space, etc.)
• Consider design services, plant selection, construction, and maintenance.
  
• Decide if you plan to care for areas of the landscape yourself or if you prefer to have a contractor provide the ongoing maintenance.

Are they professional?
When selecting a contractor, talk to a few different companies. Ask them:

1. How long has the firm been in business? This will give you an idea of their knowledge about Colorado’s climate and environmental conditions.
2. What certifications and professional affiliations do the company and/or employees hold?
3. Find out how they incorporate industry Best Management Practices.
4. Does the firm intend to use subcontractors?
5. Get proof of insurance for liability and workers' compensation, and ask what local licenses and permits will be required.

Get references

• Visit current in-progress jobs. Not only can this be fun, but you can view the crew's appearance and job site to see if they are generally tidy. (Remember that construction sites will not be pristine).
• Check with the Better Business Bureau. If there are complaints, read them to see how they have been resolved.
• Talk to past and present customers and ask:
  1. Did the contractor display good work habits, return calls promptly and keep appointments?
  2. Did the contractor honor the contract and respond to concerns expressed by the customer?
  3. Would the customer hire the firm again?

Get it in writing

• Professional firms will have written estimates and contracts that include the scope of work, estimated time of completion, total costs, payment methods, warranties and possibly dispute resolution options should a conflict arise.
• Review the contract carefully before signing.

Why hire an ALCC member for your landscape work?

ALCC members will strive to satisfy the above criteria. With more than 700 members statewide, the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado is the professional trade association for Colorado’s landscape construction, irrigation and maintenance contractors and designers.

For more than 45 years, ALCC has set high standards of professionalism and business integrity for its members. ALCC members receive the latest information and techniques, including efficient water management and use, that help landscapes thrive in Colorado’s tough growing conditions.

Choose your contractor wisely and you’ll have a landscape you can be proud of. For information about ALCC or to find a qualified, professional contractor in your area, visit Find a Landscape Professional.