Why Oasis

When beginning negotiations for a landscaping contract it’s important to be specific about your expectations. At Oasis, we know the important questions you should ask any landscaping company.  If you decide on doing business with us, or opt for another landscaper, we would like to give our input to assure you’ll be satisfied with not only the final product, but the service along the way.

1.  Make sure of ANY consultation fees.
Nearly all landscaping companies will speak to you over the phone at no charge, but may charge a consultation fee for coming to your house. For a true estimate, a good landscaper should be present themselves at the actual location.  Make sure, before you send out invitations, that you understand and accept any fees that may be involved. Don’t let contractors send you a bill without previous knowledge.

2.  Ask about portfolios and experience.
It’s important to find out what types of work a potential landscaper has previously accomplished.  Do they work entirely with hardscapes?  Gradations?  Do they just mow lawns?  Unfortunately the word “landscaper” taken in its modern concept has many roots.  Make sure any potential companies have worked or have the ability to work with your certain particulars.  Unless you’re of the giving nature, playing “guinea pig” for a landscaper’s experience will leave you dissatisfied.

3.  Clear the air of any particulars.
There are two possible points when you may discover hidden details; some of which may pleasantly surprise you (especially if it’s with Oasis!).  The first opportunity is when you first begin contract discussions. Remember, be specific and thorough. The second is before you sign, so make sure you read the contract completely, including the “fine print.”  One important initial issue you should talk about is the guarantee.  Make certain you fully understand what the guarantee covers and entails.  Know if it covers your territory as soon as work begins or not until after completion, the total duration of coverage, unique clauses or any special conditions.  You’ll want to ask about maintenance, before and after completion and any distinct conditions.  Landscapers sometimes have special clauses that stay concealed unless asked about.

4.  Find out what the next steps are before the contract is signed.
You’ll want to know if there is anything you can do to create a more conducive atmosphere.  Find out when your location should expect workers.  You may need to advise the neighbors to move their car.  The homeowner’s association might need contacting.  There might be more planning needed.  You might have to schedule a time with your landscaper to pick out vegetation.  From the dried ink to the completion of the plan, a lot can and needs to happen.  Find out what it is!

5.  Know what happens when things go wrong.
was supposed to be a utopian state – have you seen now?  It’s just like any U.S. state, far from perfect.  Problems can arise.  The good news is you might not have to solve them.  Weather, work conditions, special orders, cracked cement or even a daughter’s birthday party can put things on hold.  Find out what happens in case of minor (hopefully never major) emergencies.  You’ll want to know if a company charges for labor during prolonged weather delays.

6.  When is the job complete?
Of all things, both you and your landscaper should be most clear on this.  If those mango trees special ordered from the Caribbean don’t make it State-side until the following summer, make sure you know who’s putting them in.  That neighbor kid you’d otherwise rely on might be studying abroad.  If you’ve set a finish date, know what the expectations are in meeting the deadline.  You might want to put in mango trees yourself.  Or you might want the company back every other week to mow, pull weeds and prune.  Making sure both parties have agreed when and how a project will be completed.  It is the only way to ensure common satisfaction.