Comparing quotes can really be like chalk and cheese. Whether it’s a small job with no conceptual plans or a larger job with a design, quotes from different landscape companies can vary in price quite extensively. That does not necessarily mean one company is charging more, there is a whole range of different building procedures, different materials and different approaches that are used in our industry.

For the consumer, this makes it hard when comparing as they may not realise the differences in the way the job will be built from one landscaper to another. Don’t be afraid to ask the landscaper to provide you with a more detailed quote if needed.

Some things to consider when comparing:

• Thickness of concrete slab and crushed rock under paving sections.
• Materials used should be outlined in the quote (ie. What type of timber/pavers/turf/mulch etc.).
• If a pergola or outdoor room is in the design being quoted from, have they requested the engineer plans before finalising the quote?
• How in-depth has the landscaper been during the quoting process? An in-depth approach to the larger more detailed jobs is so important so no surprise costs come up along the way. These ‘surprise costs’ may have been in fact accounted for in one of the higher quotes which you didn’t choose simply because you went with the cheapest (the cheapest is not always a wise idea!).
• Have items included and not included been noted? Eg. Has a registered electrician cost been accounted for to install the additional power points needed or will that be an extra
• Have a close comparison of the drainage, waterproofing (of retaining walls) and irrigation sections to find any differences between the quotes which may lead you to questions for each landscaper.
• And finally ask the question, is the landscaper a registered building practitioner? Not only is it a legality, but there is more costs involved with registration such as the builders warranty insurance that will be provided to you if the contract is over $12,000.

We are not trying to sell anything here, but help the governing bodies to educate the public on the standards of our industry which has been going through some major regulatory changes over the last few years to protect the consumer.

Victoria has an exciting and innovative landscape industry which inspires all involved! So make sure your quote is coming from an industry professional, who has the right registrations to ensure they will comply with the building codes of practice. Your landscape will look have the desired look, but also will be built to last.