10 Smart Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Landscaper

For Minnesota homeowners who want the job done right the first time

Why These Questions Matter in Minnesota

Let’s say you’re staring out your front window in early spring, dreaming of a lush lawn and tidy garden beds—but the snow just melted, your soil is soggy, and last fall’s leaves are still piled up. Sound familiar? This is exactly when Minnesota homeowners start wondering how to hire a landscaper who actually understands our seasons, our soil, and our schedules.

Landscaping services aren’t just about mowing or planting flowers. They’re about choosing a reliable partner to care for your property year-round. These 10 smart questions will help you avoid surprises and feel confident in your choice.

1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?

Before anything else, make sure the landscaper has proper credentials. Licensing is especially important if they handle fertilizers or pesticides. Insurance protects you if something goes wrong on your property.

Ask for proof of liability insurance, workers’ comp, and any required Minnesota licenses.

2. Can You Give Me a Written Estimate?

A professional should offer a detailed, written proposal—not just a verbal ballpark. This helps avoid last-minute add-ons and price changes.

Look for clear descriptions of the work, timelines, and full cost breakdowns.

3. What Types of Landscaping Services Do You Specialize In?

Not every landscaper does everything. Some focus on design, others on maintenance or hardscaping. If you’re planning something specific—like installing native plants or fixing drainage—ask if they’ve done that type of work before.

Choose a company whose strengths match your needs.

4. Can I See Photos or Talk to Past Clients?

Before-and-after photos are great, but personal stories are better. Ask for 2–3 references and follow up. Were they happy with the results? Did the crew show up on time?

5. Who Will Actually Be Doing the Work?

You deserve to know who’s on your property. Will it be the same crew every week? Are they employees or subcontractors? Who’s supervising?

Consistency matters—especially for ongoing lawn care.

6. What’s Your Schedule Like?

Timing is everything in Minnesota landscaping. From spring thaw to fall cleanup, you want someone who can work with the weather—and your calendar.

Ask how they handle rain delays, snow surprises, or seasonal transitions.

7. How Do You Handle Communication?

Whether you prefer texts, emails, or old-fashioned phone calls, make sure the landscaper is reachable and responsive.

Pro tip: Ask how quickly they respond to service issues and whether you’ll get regular updates.

8. What Products and Practices Do You Use?

This is key if you care about safety, sustainability, or avoiding harsh chemicals. Some landscapers offer organic options, composting, or pet-safe fertilizers.

Ask about fertilizers, mulches, pest control methods, and whether they use native plants.

9. Do You Offer Guarantees or Warranties?

Some services—like plant installation or irrigation systems—may come with guarantees. Know what’s covered and what’s not.

Tip: Warranties often require you to follow specific maintenance steps.

10. What Ongoing Maintenance Do You Recommend?

A good landscaper won’t just leave you with a great yard—they’ll help you keep it that way.

Ask about seasonal packages, pruning schedules, or whether you can handle things yourself later.

Real-World Example: Scott’s Lawn Care

If you’re in the West Twin Cities Metro, Scott’s Lawn Care is a standout example of a full-service, locally rooted provider. They specialize in year-round landscaping services designed for Minnesota’s unique challenges—from spring dethatching to robotic summer mowing, fall aeration, and even winter snow care.

What sets them apart?

• Deep knowledge of regional lawn stressors like freeze-thaw cycles
• Consistent crews and high client retention
• Options like custom fertilization plans and drainage assessments

They’re the kind of team that busy homeowners can trust without needing to micromanage.

Bottom Line: How to Hire a Landscaper You Can Count On

When choosing between landscaping services, the right questions can make all the difference. Use this list as your hiring cheat sheet. And remember:

• Choose licensed and insured professionals
• Prioritize clear communication and written proposals
• Match their specialties to your property’s needs
• Ask for proof of quality through portfolios or references

For Minnesota yards, where weather waits for no one, finding the right landscaper is more than a one-time task—it’s a smart investment in your home’s health and curb appeal.

Looking for a place to start? Ask around your neighborhood—or check out a trusted local name like Scott’s Lawn Care. They’ve been through 20 winters and still know when to dethatch.