Hiring the right landscaping company is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make for your home. A great contractor transforms your property and builds a relationship that lasts years. The wrong choice means wasted money, a frustrating experience, and a landscape that underperforms. Here's what to evaluate before signing anything.
In New York, landscaping and landscape construction work requires a home improvement contractor license. Ask for license numbers and verify them. Beyond licensing, confirm the contractor carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation — both protect you if something goes wrong on your property. Don't take their word for it; ask to see the actual certificates.
For water features specifically, the Certified Aquascape Contractor (CAC) designation is the industry benchmark. CACs are trained by the leader in pond system design, tested on installation quality, and required to maintain continuing education. When your project involves an ecosystem pond, koi, or any recirculating water system, a CAC Certified installer — like Scott Anderson — brings a level of technical competence that unlicensed contractors simply can't match.
For landscape design broadly, a design background matters. Scott Anderson holds a Bachelor of Architecture from NYIT — training that directly informs how he approaches proportion, spatial relationships, and the interaction between built elements and planting. Look for contractors who have formal design training, not just installation experience.
Any established landscaping company should be able to show you a body of completed work — not just a handful of their best jobs, but a consistent body of projects across different property types, budgets, and design styles. Look for projects similar to yours in scale and complexity. If you want a koi pond, see their koi ponds. If you want a full rear yard renovation, see how they handle that scope.
Google Business Profile reviews from verified customers are the most reliable source. Look for patterns — not just star ratings, but what people say about communication, timeline, professionalism when problems arose, and whether the finished project matched the proposal. A company with 60+ reviews and a strong rating has earned that over years of consistent work.
Be cautious of companies that can't provide license numbers, ask for large upfront cash payments before any work begins, won't give you a written contract with itemized scope, or can't explain how their pricing was calculated. Any contractor who pressures you into a fast decision without letting you review references or see their portfolio is worth avoiding.
The best landscaping relationships are built on trust, transparency, and genuine expertise. Take the time to find someone whose work you admire and whose communication gives you confidence — it makes the entire process better.