Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• survey the existing garden, measure access and mark services

• remove turf, unwanted plants and prepare sub‑base for new finishes

• install low‑maintenance surfaces (gravel, paving, decking or artificial grass) to the agreed specification

• fit edging, basic drainage runs and weed‑suppressing layer where needed

• plant low‑maintenance specimens or supply planting plan and finish with mulch or decorative stone

• clear and remove waste, sweep site and advise on simple maintenance and warranty items

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Small clear-and-lay jobs: 2–6 hours. Typical low‑maintenance makeover (new surfacing, edging and planting): 1–2 days. Larger jobs with drainage, raised beds or heavy paving: 2–4 days. factors that extend time include poor access, bad weather, discovery of buried services or contaminated soil

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• can you provide a written, itemised quote showing labour, materials and disposal

• what guarantees or aftercare do you offer on surfaces and planting

• who supplies materials and can you show samples or a supplier spec

• how will you protect boundaries, patios and neighbours during the work

• how do you manage waste and will skip hire or removal be included

• are you insured for public liability and do you have references or photos of similar jobs

How to Avoid Surprises

• confirm access, delivery point and parking for vans or a skip

• tell the tradie about TPOs, shared boundaries or neighbour agreements before work starts

• mark any known underground services and point out sheds, greenhouses or hidden obstacles

• agree where materials will be stored on site to avoid blocking neighbours or access

• check whether any work needs permit or building control sign‑off and who will arrange it

• mention pets, indoor access needs and any contamination concerns so PPE and waste handling can be planned