How to Choose the Right Landscaper for Your Project

Hiring a landscaper is a significant decision.

Whether you're planning a full landscape build, a drainage upgrade, or long-term property maintenance, the company you choose will directly impact the quality, durability, and performance of your outdoor space.

This guide outlines what to look for — and what to avoid — when selecting a landscaping contractor in Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley.

1. Look Beyond Appearance

Landscaping isn’t just about visual appeal.

A properly built landscape must account for:

• Drainage and grading

• Soil conditions

• Irrigation planning

• Plant suitability

• Long-term maintenance requirements

A landscaper who focuses only on aesthetics without addressing performance can create costly issues down the road.

Ask how they approach structural elements, not just plant design.

2. Confirm Professional Experience

Experience matters — especially in the Fraser Valley climate.

A qualified landscaper should understand:

• Local rainfall patterns

• Soil variability in Abbotsford

• Plant performance in wet winters and dry summers

• Municipal and strata requirements

Ask about:

• Years in business

• Type of projects completed

• Familiarity with properties similar to yours

3. Ensure Vision Alignment

Every property owner has a different goal.

Some prioritize low maintenance.
Others want outdoor entertaining space.
Strata councils focus on reliability and long-term budgeting.

Choose a landscaper who:

• Listens carefully

• Asks clarifying questions

• Explains options clearly

• Provides realistic feedback

Good contractors guide you — they don’t simply agree to everything.

4. Review Quality of Work

Look at completed projects, not just design renderings.

Pay attention to:

• Straight lines and clean edges

• Proper grading

• Clean finishing details

• Consistency across projects

Quality craftsmanship shows in the small details.

If possible, request references or visit completed properties.

5. Ask About Process

A professional landscaping company should have a clear process.

Typical steps should include:

1. Site visit and assessment

2. Scope definition

3. Transparent quote

4. Defined project timeline

5. Clear communication during execution

If the process feels vague, expect confusion later.

6. Demand Budget Transparency

Unexpected cost increases often stem from unclear quoting.

A reliable landscaper should provide:

• Detailed scope of work

• Material breakdown (where applicable)

• Clear payment schedule

• Explanation of potential contingencies

Transparency builds trust and prevents conflict.

7. Verify Licensing and Insurance

Before signing any contract:

• Confirm business licensing

• Confirm liability insurance

• Ask about WCB/WorkSafeBC coverage

This protects both you and the contractor.

8. Read Reviews Carefully

Online reviews can reveal patterns.

Look for comments related to:

• Communication

• Reliability

• Timeliness

• Clean job sites

• Long-term satisfaction

Consistent positive feedback across multiple clients is a strong signal.

9. Understand Long-Term Support

Landscaping is not always a one-time project.

Ask:

• Do they offer maintenance?

• Do they provide seasonal support?

• Are they available for adjustments or warranty concerns?

Ongoing accountability separates short-term contractors from long-term partners.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Vague quotes

• Unrealistic timelines

• Lack of references

• Poor communication

• Extremely low pricing compared to competitors

In landscaping, extremely low bids often result in shortcuts.

Choosing a Landscaping Partner in Abbotsford

The right landscaper should provide:

• Clear communication

• Realistic expectations

• Quality workmanship

• Accountability

• Long-term reliability

Landshapers Contracting works with homeowners and strata councils across Abbotsford, Mission, and Langley with a focus on transparency, professional standards, and consistent execution.

If you're planning a landscaping project and want practical guidance before moving forward, contact us to schedule a site review.