7 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Landscape Service Near You

When you search for a “landscape service near me,” how can you be sure you’re choosing a company that will show up on time, price their work transparently, and treat your property with respect? Too many homeowners in Campbell River and the surrounding islands have stories of no-shows, surprise fees, and sloppy work. Asking the right questions upfront is the best way to avoid these headaches and hire with confidence.

As a local, family-owned team serving Campbell River, Comox Valley, Quadra Island, and the nearby Discovery Islands, we’ve built our reputation on transparency and reliability. We want to help you make an informed choice. Use these seven questions to vet any landscaping company and find a reliable partner for your project.

1. Can you provide clear, example-based pricing and a detailed scope of work?

Vague quotes lead to unexpected costs. A professional landscaper should be able to give you a clear idea of what to expect.

What to ask for:

• Price Ranges: Ask for typical price ranges for common jobs.
• Line-Item Quotes: Always request a written, line-item quote that separates labor, materials, and any disposal fees. This allows you to compare bids accurately.
• Billing Structure: Clarify if they charge a flat rate for defined projects or an hourly rate for work with a more variable scope.

The Dream Team Difference: We provide detailed written quotes with a clear change-order policy, so you always know what you’re paying for.

2. What specific services do you offer, and who will be doing the work?

You want a team that has the right skills for your specific needs, whether it’s routine lawn care, a new garden bed, or a custom fence.

What to ask for:

• Core Services: Confirm they specialize in the services you need, like lawn maintenance, seasonal cleanups, pruning, hardscaping, or irrigation checks.
• Crew Information: Ask who will be on-site—are they trained employees or subcontractors? Inquire about their training and whether they use job checklists to ensure quality.

The Dream Team Difference: We staff trained, local crews who follow documented checklists for every job, ensuring consistent, high-quality results for properties just like yours.

3. What is your service area, and how do you handle scheduling for island and remote properties?

Logistics can be complicated, especially when ferries and remote access are involved. A reliable local company will have a clear plan.

What to ask for:

• Service Area: Confirm they serve your location, whether it’s in Campbell River, the Comox Valley, or on Quadra, Cortes, or the Discovery Islands.
• Scheduling Policies: Ask about their typical lead times, arrival windows, and what happens in case of bad weather.
• Travel Fees: Be upfront about your location, including ferry access or steep driveways, and ask for any travel or access fees to be disclosed in writing.

The Dream Team Difference: We have a published service map and are transparent about any travel fees. Our experience with island jobs means we plan for logistics like ferry schedules to keep your project on track.

4. Are you insured and bonded, and do you provide written contracts?

Protecting your property is non-negotiable. Don’t risk hiring a company that can’t provide proof of their credentials.

What to ask for:

• Proof of Insurance: Request proof of general liability insurance (a minimum of $2M is standard), worker coverage, and bonding.
• Written Contract: A formal agreement should outline the scope of work, payment schedule, warranties, and terms for any changes. This protects both you and the contractor.

The Dream Team Difference: Our insurance and bonding are always on file and available for you to review. We use clear contracts with defined payment milestones.

5. Can I see recent before-and-after photos and speak to local references?

The best way to judge a company’s quality is to see their work and hear from past clients.

What to ask for:

• Visual Proof: Ask for a portfolio of recent projects similar to yours, preferably from your neighborhood.
• Local References: Request contact information for recent, local clients. Check their reviews on Google and Facebook to get a feel for their reputation.

The Dream Team Difference: We’re proud of our work and are happy to share location-specific before-and-after photos and connect you with local references.

6. What eco-friendly and seasonal plans do you recommend for our local climate?

Our coastal climate has unique challenges, from wet winters to dry summers. A knowledgeable local landscaper will offer solutions tailored to our environment.

What to ask for:

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Inquire about their use of native plants, efficient irrigation, battery-powered equipment, and organic options like mulching and composting.
• Seasonal Plans: A good landscaper should offer a year-round plan, including spring aeration, summer watering strategies, fall overseeding, and winter storm prep.

The Dream Team Difference: We design climate-smart, year-round plans tailored to your property’s specific needs, focusing on sustainable practices that thrive in our local ecosystem.

7. How will you communicate with me and protect my property during the project?

Clear communication and respect for your home are the hallmarks of a professional team.

What to ask for:

• Communication Plan: Ask who your main point of contact will be and how they will provide updates.
• Property Protection: Clarify their process for protecting your property, including cleanup standards, pet safety measures, and how they handle any potential damage.
• Satisfaction Guarantee: Find out if they do a final walkthrough to ensure you’re happy with the results.

The Dream Team Difference: You’ll have a single point of contact, receive photo updates, and we’ll perform a final satisfaction check to make sure every detail is perfect.

Ready for a Landscaping Partner You Can Trust?

Choosing the right landscape service near you doesn’t have to be a gamble. By asking these seven questions, you can identify a reliable, transparent, and skilled team that will bring your vision to life.

If you’re ready for a quote from a local team that values honesty and quality, we’re here to help.

Contact a Local Landscaper for Your Free Estimate!

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