Questions to Ask a Landscaping Contractor in Edmonton Before Hiring

Prefer Video? Watch This!

1. Do You Use Subcontractors? If So, For What?

A lot of companies don’t actually build your project—they sell it, then pass it off.

Ask:

• Do you use subcontractors?
• What parts of the job are subcontracted?
• Who is responsible for quality control?

👉 Why this matters:
If everything is subcontracted, you’re often dealing with a middleman, not the actual builder.

That can lead to:

• Miscommunication
• Inconsistent quality
• No clear accountability if something goes wrong

A professional contractor will be upfront about exactly who is doing the work.

2. What Warranty Do You Offer—and Will It Be in Writing?

This is one of the biggest indicators of quality.

Ask:

• What’s covered under warranty?
• How long does it last?
• What voids the warranty?
• Can I see it in writing?

👉 Why this matters:
Anyone can say they stand behind their work—far fewer actually back it up.

For example, Mane Terrain Landscaping provides a 5-year warranty on hardscape installations, with clear terms so homeowners know exactly what’s covered.

👉 If it’s not written down, don’t rely on it.

3. Can I Go Through the Contract Line by Line With You?

Too many homeowners skim this—and regret it later.

You should feel comfortable asking:

• What exactly is included in the scope?
• Are materials clearly specified?
• What happens if something changes?

👉 Why this matters:
The contract defines everything:

• Cost
• Timeline
• Responsibilities

A good contractor should be able to answer every question clearly and confidently.

If they can’t—or seem annoyed—that’s a warning sign.

4. Do You Have WCB Coverage and Liability Insurance?

This is completely non-negotiable in Alberta.

Ask for proof of:

• WCB (Workers’ Compensation Board) coverage
• Liability insurance

👉 Why this matters:
If a worker gets injured or damage occurs and the contractor isn’t covered, you could be held liable.

Professional companies will provide this immediately—no hesitation.

5. What Base Preparation and Installation Process Do You Use?

This is where most landscaping projects fail.

Ask:

• How deep is your base?
• What materials do you use underneath patios or walls?
• Do you use geotextile fabric?
• How do you handle drainage?

👉 Why this matters:
The base is what determines whether your project lasts 2 years or 20 years.

In climates like Edmonton, freeze-thaw cycles demand proper preparation—shortcuts will show up fast.

6. Can I See Past Projects Similar to Mine?

Not all experience is equal.

Ask for:

• Before & after photos
• Projects similar in size and style
• Work completed locally

👉 Why this matters:
A contractor who regularly builds patios, retaining walls, and full yard designs will deliver better results than one who only does basic maintenance.

7. What’s the Timeline—and What Could Delay It?

Every project has variables.

Ask:

• When can you start?
• How long will it take?
• What could cause delays?

👉 Why this matters:
Weather, material availability, and site conditions all play a role—but a professional should give you realistic expectations, not just tell you what you want to hear.

8. Who Will Be On Site Managing the Project?

You’re not just hiring a company—you’re hiring a team.

Ask:

• Will there be a foreman on-site daily?
• Who is my main point of contact?
• How is quality control handled?

👉 Why this matters:
Strong on-site leadership is one of the biggest factors in a successful project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does landscaping cost in Edmonton?

Costs vary depending on the project, but rough ranges are:

• Patios: $15–$35 per sq ft
• Retaining walls: $75–$150 per sq ft
• Full yard transformations: $15,000–$100,000+

The best way to get accurate pricing is through a design and consultation process.

Should I get multiple quotes from landscaping contractors?

Yes—but make sure you’re comparing the same scope.

Cheaper quotes often:

• Skip base preparation
• Use lower-quality materials
• Leave out key details

Always compare what’s included, not just the price.

How do I know if a landscaping contractor is legit?

Look for:

• Insurance and WCB coverage
• Clear contract and process
• Strong local portfolio
• Consistent reviews on Google

If anything feels unclear or rushed, trust that instinct.

Final Thoughts

Hiring the right landscaping contractor comes down to clarity and accountability.

The best companies will:

• Answer your questions without hesitation
• Provide everything in writing
• Have a clear, structured process

If you ask these questions upfront, you’ll avoid the most common (and expensive) mistakes homeowners make.

Planning a Landscaping Project in Edmonton or St. Albert?

The best place to start is with a proper design plan.

This allows you to:

• Visualize the finished space
• Understand costs before committing
• Avoid costly changes during construction

If you’re serious about upgrading your yard, start with a consultation and build it the right way from day one.

‍