Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Site survey and measurements including levels, access constraints and drainage

• Discuss client requirements, maintenance expectations and budget

• Produce concept plan with layout options and a rough cost estimate

• Provide detailed design and planting plan with species list and quantities and flag any soil issues or PPE needs

• Specify materials and hard landscaping details and approximate supply costs

• Coordinate contractors and set out an implementation phasing and estimated timetable

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Site visit and initial brief 1–2 hours; concept sketch stage 2–5 working days; detailed design and planting plan 1–3 weeks depending on revisions; installation is quoted separately — small installs 1–3 days and larger projects 1–3 weeks

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• How many similar local gardens have you designed and can I see examples

• Can you provide client references and photographs of finished works

• Is the site visit fee deducted from the final invoice and what are payment terms

• Who sources plants and materials and do you use local suppliers

• Will I receive a written specification, planting list and itemised estimate

• What guarantees or aftercare do you provide for planting and any hard landscaping

How to Avoid Surprises

• confirm access for vehicles and where trades can park

• tell the designer about boundary ownership, rights of way and existing services

• point out underground drains, cables or tree roots before work starts

• agree where green waste and spoil will be stored or removed and who pays for skips

• check planning permission, conservation area or covenant restrictions for structures

• clear fragile items, secure pets and highlight any contamination concerns before visits