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How to hire a Landscaper

Landscapers design, install, and maintain outdoor spaces including lawns, gardens, hardscaping, irrigation, and lighting. A skilled landscaper enhances curb appeal, increases property value, and creates outdoor living spaces you actually enjoy.

$3,000 to $15,000

per project

10 steps

Full hiring checklist

8 red flags

Warning signs to catch

The hiring checklist.

Work through these before you hire any landscaper. Skip a step and it's usually the one that comes back to bite you.

  1. 01

    Define your project goals

    Know whether you need maintenance (mowing, trimming), design and installation (new beds, patios, retaining walls), or both.

  2. 02

    Check licensing requirements

    Many states require landscape contractors to be licensed, especially for irrigation, pesticide application, or projects over a certain dollar amount.

  3. 03

    Verify insurance

    Confirm general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Landscaping involves heavy equipment, chemicals, and physical labor.

  4. 04

    Get written estimates with plans

    For design projects, ask for a landscape plan or drawing with the estimate. The estimate should itemize plants, materials, and labor.

  5. 05

    Ask about plant knowledge

    A good landscaper knows which plants thrive in your climate zone and can recommend low-maintenance, drought-resistant, or native options.

  6. 06

    Review their portfolio

    Ask for photos of completed projects, especially ones similar to yours. Drive by their recent work if possible.

  7. 07

    Check for pesticide applicator licenses

    If the job involves herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers, the landscaper or a team member must hold a certified applicator license.

  8. 08

    Discuss maintenance requirements

    Understand what ongoing maintenance your new landscape will need and whether the landscaper offers maintenance contracts.

  9. 09

    Confirm grading and drainage plans

    Improper grading can direct water toward your foundation. Make sure the landscaper addresses drainage in the design.

  10. 10

    Get a detailed contract

    The contract should specify plants (species, sizes), materials, hardscape details, irrigation, timeline, cost, and warranty for plant survival.

Red flags to watch for.

Any one of these should give you pause. Two or more, and it's time to walk away.

  • No portfolio or examples of past work
  • Cannot identify plants or recommend species for your zone
  • Ignores drainage and grading in the plan
  • No written estimate or plan for design projects
  • Uses only annuals instead of a mix of perennials and shrubs
  • No license for pesticide or herbicide application
  • Does not discuss irrigation or watering needs
  • Demands full payment before planting

Questions to ask first.

Ask these before you sign anything. The answers tell you fast who knows the work and who's improvising.

  1. 01What plants do you recommend for my climate zone and soil type?
  2. 02How will you address drainage around the house?
  3. 03Do you install irrigation systems?
  4. 04What is the plant warranty or replacement policy?
  5. 05Will you provide a landscape plan or drawing?
  6. 06How long will the installation take?
  7. 07Do you offer ongoing maintenance services?
  8. 08What is your experience with hardscaping (patios, walls, walkways)?

What to verify.

Confirm every one of these in writing before you sign a contract with any landscaper.

  • Landscape contractor license (if required by state)
  • General liability insurance
  • Workers' compensation insurance
  • Pesticide applicator license (if applicable)
  • Portfolio of completed projects
  • References from similar projects

Average cost

$3,000 to $15,000

per project

Prices swing with location, project complexity, and the landscaper's experience. Always get multiple written estimates and compare them line by line, not just on the bottom number, before you decide.

Find licensed landscapers near you.

Browse verified listings with ratings, reviews, and licensing details in the free Vemra directory, then request quotes from the ones you've vetted.

Search landscapers

Common questions.

How much does landscaping cost?
Basic landscaping projects start around $3,000 for simple plantings and mulch. Mid-range projects with hardscaping, irrigation, and mature plantings run $5,000 to $15,000. Large-scale landscape overhauls with outdoor living spaces can exceed $25,000. Ongoing maintenance typically costs $100 to $400 per month.
What is the difference between a landscaper and a landscape architect?
A landscape architect has a professional degree and is licensed to design large-scale outdoor spaces, often for commercial properties or projects requiring permits. A landscaper handles installation and maintenance. For residential projects, a landscape designer (no formal licensure required) is often the right fit.
When is the best time to landscape?
Spring and fall are the best times for most landscaping projects. Planting in these seasons gives plants time to establish roots before extreme heat or cold. Hardscaping (patios, walkways) can be done almost any time the ground is not frozen.
Do landscapers offer warranties on plants?
Many reputable landscapers offer a one-year warranty on plants, meaning they will replace any that die within the first year as long as you follow their watering and care instructions. Always confirm the warranty terms in writing before the project begins.

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