We know you have your choice of lawn mowing and landscaping providers.  There are many in the area.  It helps to know the right questions to ask when hiring a contractor.  Many contractors who advertise services are not licensed or insured.  Some providers may say they can offer you it all or provide you any service you need just to get the job.  We've all heard the phrase "jack of all trades, master of none." Some even quote you rock bottom prices just to make a dollar, but leave the job unfinished or take a down payment and never show up to do the job.    Anyone can put up a business website and Facebook page and say they are a professional.  Specializing in a service and trade takes time and dedication.  Make sure you know you are hiring someone you can trust.  Someone with over a decade of experience can, more often than not, provide a better quality job and give advice and experience that only comes with being in the industry for many years.  We have compiled a list to help you get started when choosing a contractor.  If you have any questions or need a quote, call us even if you don't hire us to do the job.  We are happy to help.  We won't take on any job that we are not experienced to do.  We will provide exceptional quality services every time.  Our passion is our business.  The service we provide is our way of life. Our dedication is to you.  

• Always ask to see if the contractor is licensed with the State of CT.  If so, They will be able to provide you with a HIC (Home Improvement Contractor) License.  Yes, landscapers should have them as should any other type of contractor your hire to provide services to your home or business.
  
• Always ask for proof of insurance to be sent to you directly from their insurance company to ensure its authentication.
  
• Always ask for a copy of their CT sales and use tax certificate.  This is important.  If they don't care enough to run their business legitimately and pay taxes to the state, they probably don't care enough to do a quality job.
  
• Ask how long they have been in business and whether they run their business full-time or only part time.
  
• Ask about their employees and their employees' experience.  Ask whether the owner will be onsite if there is a problem.
  
• Ask what type of equipment they use and how it is maintained.  Sharpened mower blades are important, dull ones can damage your lawn.  Professional equipment can provide a better cut.
  
• Always make sure the provider is willing to give you a receipt for the services they provide.  
• If you are looking for hardscaping make sure  that the contractor offers a warranty and that the stone being used comes from a reputable stone company and not a chain store.  Stone companies will warranty their stone for chipping and other defects as long as it installed per manufacturer's instructions.  Always get all warranties in writing before giving a deposit for the job.
  
• Get all estimates in writing and don't be afraid to sign a contract. Most professionals have contracts designed to protect both the customer and the contractor.  Always read everything and make sure you understand what the provider is offering you before you sign anything.  Don't be afraid to ask questions.  Whether it's one question or a hundred, anyone who won't take the time to answer them all or seems annoyed by you asking is not worth your time.
  
• Ask about their work environment.  Do their employees wear uniforms?  How do they clean up when the job is done?  Are their trucks lettered professionally?
  
• You are the boss.  Make sure the contractor you hire is willing to work for you.