Look for proven experience

A good place to start is by looking at the landscaper's previous work.

Ask to see examples of projects similar to the one you're considering. Don't just look at the overall finished photograph either. Pay attention to the details: neat edges, carefully cut paving, consistent joints and how different areas and materials have been brought together.

It can also be helpful to ask how they approached a particular project and whether they encountered any challenges along the way. An experienced professional should be comfortable explaining their work and the decisions behind it.

Check reviews and recommendations

Recommendations can provide useful reassurance, particularly if they come from homeowners who have commissioned similar work.

Look for consistent feedback rather than relying on a single review. What do previous customers say about communication, reliability, workmanship and the finished result?

Expect a proper conversation about your project

A trustworthy landscaper shouldn't simply ask what paving you want and give you a price.

They should want to understand what you're trying to achieve.

How will you use the space? What style are you looking for? What's important to you? What's your budget? Are there practical considerations that could affect the design or installation?

They should also be prepared to explain what's involved in the project in straightforward language you understand.

The best conversations aren't simply about selling you more. They're about helping you make the right decisions for your home.

Make sure you understand the quote

Before committing to a landscaper, make sure you're clear about what you're paying for.

A professional quote should give you a good understanding of the work being proposed and what is included, and what isn’t.

You may want to discuss the products being used, preparation and installation work, waste removal, timescales and what could happen if unexpected issues are uncovered once work begins.

Knowing what's included from the start makes it much easier to compare quotes fairly and reduces the risk of surprises later!

Don't automatically choose the cheapest quote

When you're investing a significant amount in your home, it's understandable to want to keep costs under control. But the lowest quote isn't necessarily the best value.

The quality of installation can have a huge impact on both the appearance and performance of your finished patio or driveway.

If one quote is significantly cheaper than the others, ask why. There may be a perfectly reasonable explanation, but it's important to understand whether you're comparing like for like.

Think about the whole project rather than price alone: experience, workmanship, communication, materials and your confidence in the person carrying out the work all matter.  Always ask about warranties and aftercare.

Ask about the products they recommend

A good landscaper should be able to talk you through the materials they're proposing and why they're suitable for your project.

They should be able to explain different options and help you balance appearance, performance and budget rather than simply steering you towards one choice.

This is also a good opportunity to ask how the products should be installed and maintained, so you know what to expect once the project is complete.

Look for professional accreditation

One of the simplest ways to add another layer of reassurance is to choose a Marshalls Accredited Installer.

Choosing an accredited professional means you're not starting your search completely from scratch. Marshalls accreditation provides an additional level of confidence when you're deciding who to trust with your home and your investment.

It's about making the process of finding a professional landscaper feel easier, safer and more straightforward.

Trust the way they work, not just the finished pictures

Beautiful photographs are important, but professionalism shows up throughout the whole experience.

Do they communicate clearly? Do they turn up when they say they will? Are they willing to answer questions? Do they explain what's happening? Do you feel comfortable discussing your budget or raising concerns?  Do they operate a tidy site? Asking to visit a “live” project isn’t unreasonable.

Your landscaper could be working at your home for days or even weeks, so feeling confident in the way they communicate and work is important.

Take your time before deciding

You don't have to make a decision immediately.

Get quotes, ask questions, look at previous projects and make sure you understand what's being proposed.

Most importantly, choose someone who gives you confidence that they'll treat your project – and your home – with the care it deserves.

Because choosing the right landscaper isn't simply about finding someone who can lay paving. It's about finding someone you can trust to get your project right.

Written By

Marc King

Marc is a Regional Assessor and his story is rooted in hard work, craftsmanship, and a relentless determination to build something of his own.

Read Marc's full profile here.