Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Survey and mark out the border line and levels to agreed dimensions

• strip turf and remove surface vegetation for composting or disposal

• dig over and remove perennial weeds, roots and invasive runners

• incorporate topsoil and compost and level or rotavate as agreed

• install chosen edging (timber, stone or metal) and backfill to hold line

• apply weed suppressant or mulch and tidy the area ready for planting

• check for buried services, wear PPE and remove any contaminated material safely

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Small border (1–3 m) typically 3–6 hours; medium border or multiple beds 1–2 days; time increases for hard edging, heavy root removal or poor access

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• what exactly is included in the quoted price and what is charged extra

• do you handle green waste disposal or should I arrange a skip

• can you confirm any guarantees for edging and soil settlement

• will you check for and record buried services before digging

• what PPE and contamination controls do you use if soil is suspect

• how will you protect nearby plants, turf and hard surfaces during work

How to Avoid Surprises

• clear access and a work area for tools and materials

• confirm parking arrangements or space for vehicle and material drop-off

• let the tradie know of nearby services, drainage and previous fill on site

• agree what is to be removed versus left for composting and disposal costs

• check if any permits or communal rules apply for working at height or skips