(1) When selecting a Outdoor Hardscapes company, make sure the company has the skilled master masons, concrete finishers and any tile setters that can achieve the level of quality of workmanship that you are looking for.

(2) Pick an outdoor hardscapes contractor that is creative and can suggest many options for you to consider when discussing the design concepts you have in mind.

(3) Make sure you are getting the materials selected for your outdoor project when the project gets underway.  Only trust companies that install what they say they will install on the work order.

(4) Comparison shopping should be based on reputation, reliability, experience and price ‘value’, not just lowest price.

(5) Contractors should carry personal liability insurance.  Avoid doing business with contractors who don’t carry the appropriate insurance.  Otherwise, you may be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.

(6) Use a well known and reputable company who you can always find in the future, or be able to easily contact for any reason. You want an established company with an office that you can go to if you ever need personal contact.  Check out the address of the contractor and see how long they have been in the area.

(7) It is very important for the contractor to be attentive to your specific needs.  The contractor should show enthusiasm for your project by suggesting ways to work within a budget and specific concerns you may have.

(8) Ask for at least 3 references of customers that have had work done by your selected company and ask those customers if they felt the job was done in reasonable time based on what the contractor told them, once construction was started.

(9) Communication is key to success on any contracting project and the more examples of previous work (projects) a contractor can relate to your project, the better indicator of quality of that contractor.

(10) As the old saying goes; “you get what you pay for”.  You don’t have to overpay, but be wary of the lowest prices you can find.

(11) Do not help contractors or their workers and do not lend them your tools.  If a worker is hurt while you are assisting (e.g., holding a ladder) or is hurt using one of your tools, you may be liable via a ‘tort claim’ by the worker or contractor.