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The Right Landscaper

Help ensure that your landscape experience is professional and positive.

Are you looking for a professional landscaper to maintain or manage property, renovate an existing garden or design and/or install a new landscape? The professional you select should have certain qualifications.

Here are some key things you should look for when you are hiring professional contractor. Before hiring, find out about your contractor's . . .

References and Portfolio

Expect to be provided with a reference list and examples of completed projects.  Ask to tour projects similar to yours.  Visiting a project in process can be instructive as well.  A "track record" of accomplishments can be demonstrated using:

  • Photos of completed projects
  • Letters of appreciation
  • Examples of community work
  • A biography and
  • Articles the contractor has written

Some professionals take great pride in awards for excellence in landscaping.  Awards encourage interest in landscaping, recognize artisans who produce outstanding landscapes, create pride in superior workmanship and bestow public recognition on companies and residents for their role in creating a more beautiful California.

Licenses and Insurance

If your project costs more than $500, the contractor must be licensed by the state.  To verify a license, contact the California State License Board by phone at (800) 321-2752 or visit them online at www.cslb.ca.gov.

Contractors must demonstrate a minimum level of competency and financial responsibility to be licensed.  All CLCA member-contractors meet this requirement.  California's cities and counties require business licenses.

  • The Department of Agriculture requires landscape firms applying pesticides in California to have a pest control license.
  • Workers' compensation insurance protects you in case a worker employed by a contractor is injured on your property.
  • General liability insurance protects against not-so-natural disasters.
  • These policies typically offer a minimum coverage of $300,000 to $1 million for commercial work.
  • Automobile insurance provides additional protection when a contractor's vehicle is involved in an accident on your property.

Certification

The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) and the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) are two of the leading professional associations that test and certify members of the green industry.

CLCLA Certified Water Managers must pass a written test and complete a rigorous year-long field performance test that documents their ability to use water wisely.

In California CLCA administers PLANET’s Landscape Industry Certified Technician test. Applicants must pass a rigorous written and “hands-on” examination demonstrating a thorough knowledge of installation maintenance and irrigation.

CLCA also administers PLANET’s Landscape Industry Certified Manager program.  Applicants must pass an examination focusing on horticulture practices as well as business and professional development.

CLCA Membership

What CLCA membership means for you. The California Landscape Contractors Association is the nation’s oldest and largest organization of licensed landscape and landscape specialty contractors. CLCA membership demonstrates a commitment by the landscaper to promote the professionalism and creativity of their company and their industry. You know when you hire a CLCA member you know you are hiring a licensed contractor.

For more information contact the local CLCA members in your area: California Lansscape Contractors Assocation.

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