BobVila.com

Finding a Landscaper

A lot of this depends on what you're looking for in a landscaper.

Are you looking for someone to mow lawns? Chances are that the small outfits that attend to that yard necessity won't have a lot of what you mention. They're too small to deal with that. And large landscape firms with entrenched and proven reputations rarely get into lawn mowing.

Now, if you're looking for someone to really landscape your lot, turn it into something you'll be proud to show off, then you're looking for a larger company with longevity and some notariety in the area. One that people know right off the bat when the name is mentioned....large, or huge. They're far more likely to offer the things you mentioned...guarantees, billing programs, insurance, and the means, methods, equipment, personnel, and knowledge of plant material to offer you everything you could want. Be prepared to pay for that service, though.

And, if by landscape you mean someone who can do all the above and offer tree surgery and maintenance, too, then by all means, ask to see evidence of insurance...liability insurance...for you and them. Your homeowners insurance should cover you home and property within the limits specified in the policy.