Allon Hoskin is Construction Director at Modular - a garden design company that manages every detail, from initial consultation for your redesign to installation. He suggests you ask these five questions before you start:
1. What type of projects do you normally work on?
Have they previously tackled a project similar to your own? This is particularly important if you have some unusual plans for your design and landscaping.
2. What - and who - is included in the cost?
Is the price they are quoting for the complete job, including everything from initial brief through design and installation and materials? Or will you have to hire a designer, a landscaper, an electrician, a plumber etc all separately?
3. Do you have at least 3 references?
Always ask to see examples of projects that they've worked on that are similar to what you are requesting. See if you can visit at least one of their previous projects, too, to check on the quality of their work.
4. What insurances do you offer?
If the company is not insured properly, you could be liable for any accidents during the time spent on your property.
5. What guarantee do you give and for how long?
What is covered - will it include plants, if they die very quickly? For fixtures such as lighting, expect the manufacturer's guarantee - but check this. Find out, too, what maintenance and after-sales service your designer offers.
