How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Wilmington, DE Outdoor Project

You've made the smart decision that it's time for an outdoor project to revitalize your Wilmington, Delaware home. However, your initial search of "landscapers near me" gives too many options and not enough details. Here, we'll show you what to expect, look for, and what to ask when hiring a landscaper. Let's get started.

Your Guide to Finding the Right Team

We know you're ready to learn more, so we've made it easy on you. Here's a quick table of contents that you can use to jump to the relevant section:

1. What to Expect When Hiring a Landscaper

2. What to Look for in a Contractor

3. Questions to Ask a Landscaper

4. All About Landscaping Contracts

5. Your Landscape Design Plan

6. How to Find a Good Landscaper

7. First Class Results

What to Expect When Hiring a Landscaper

Hiring a landscaping contractor is more than finding someone who can install a patio or plant a few shrubs. It’s about finding a partner who understands your vision and knows what features to include in your outdoor space, while maintaining high-quality standards, communication, and professionalism.

Here’s what a professional landscaping experience should include:

• Initial consultation: A walkthrough of your property to understand your needs, goals, and budget.
• Site evaluation: Assessment of grading, drainage, sun exposure, and existing structures.
• Design phase: Development of a detailed landscape design plan that includes layout, materials, lighting, planting, and construction details.
• Proposal and contract: A written estimate with a clear scope of work, timeline, and pricing.
• Construction: A skilled, respectful crew executing the project with precision and attention to detail.
• Final walkthrough: A quality check and review of the completed work.
• Post-project support: Care instructions and follow-up to ensure your satisfaction.

If a contractor skips any of these steps or seems unclear, it’s worth reconsidering your options. When you work with our team at First Class Lawncare LLC, we bring all of these factors to the table to give you the best results possible. 

What to Look for in a Contractor

What should you look for in a landscaping contractor? We've provided a list to get you started. When you're shopping for contractors in Wilmington, DE, and surrounding areas, consider the following qualities and how they work together. 

1. Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

A reputable landscaping contractor should be licensed to work in your area, carry liability insurance, and be bonded. This protects you from financial risk if something goes wrong during the project. Always request proof of insurance before work begins.

2. Strong Reviews and Reputation

Look for consistent positive feedback from clients in your community. Check online reviews, ask for references, and take note of any projects that resemble the style or scale of what you want. You want a team that shows up with a glowing portfolio and is proud of its past work. 

3. Local Knowledge

Hiring a local contractor for landscaping services means you get a team that understands Wilmington’s climate, soil conditions, and permit requirements. This knowledge helps avoid costly delays and ensures your outdoor space will be designed to last.

4. Transparent Communication

Clear, responsive communication is essential. Your contractor should walk you through every step of the process, answer your questions directly, and provide regular updates throughout the project.

5. Modern Design and Materials

A quality contractor stays current with sustainable design trends, pricing, and construction materials. Whether you’re looking for bluestone, large-format porcelain pavers, or sustainable native plantings, the right partner will guide you toward the best choices for beauty, performance, and durability.

Questions to Ask a Landscaper

Before signing a contract, have a conversation with your prospective contractor and ask questions like:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

• Can I see examples of similar projects you've completed?

• Will your own crew be handling the work, or do you subcontract?

• What materials do you recommend and why?

• What is the expected timeline and payment schedule?

These questions help you evaluate the contractor’s professionalism, approach, and ability to deliver what you’re looking for. Feel free to add as many questions of your own as you want to this list.

Your Contract Details 

What should be included in a landscaping contract? A strong contract protects both you and the contractor. It should clearly outline:

• Scope of work: Detailed explanation of the services to be performed.

• Materials: Specific materials to be used, including types, colors, and finishes.

• Timeline: Project start date, estimated completion date, and milestones.

• Payment schedule: When payments are due and what each payment covers.

• Warranty information: Guarantees on workmanship and materials.

• Change policy: Process for approving any changes to the original plan.

Review every detail carefully and ask for clarification before signing. A professional contractor will welcome your questions. Take any pushback over the contract or your questions as a sign that you need to dig deeper.

What Is Included in a Landscape Design Plan?

A full design plan is more than a sketch. It is a detailed document that guides the construction phase and ensures the final result matches your vision. A well-prepared landscape design plan typically includes:

• Hardscape layout: Design and placement of patios, walkways, stairs, retaining walls, and other structural features.

• Planting plan: Selection and location of trees, shrubs, flowers, sod, and mulch areas.

• Grading and drainage: Strategies for managing runoff and preventing erosion.

• Lighting design: Placement of outdoor lighting for safety and ambiance.

• Materials palette: Samples or descriptions of selected finishes and textures.

• Visuals: CAD drawings or 3D renderings to help you visualize the final design.

A detailed plan provides peace of mind, improves communication, and helps avoid costly surprises during installation. Your team should be open about design and installation costs so that you can plan for this investment. 

How to Find a Good Landscaper in Wilmington, DE

Now that you have the questions to ask and signs to look for, it's time to find business names. If you’re searching for the right landscape contractor, try implementing the following steps:

• Ask for recommendations from neighbors, friends, or local social media groups.

• Search online for companies with strong reputations and verified reviews.

• Visit completed projects in your area to see the work firsthand.

• Interview multiple contractors to compare their approach and personality.

• Check credentials to confirm licensing, insurance, and relevant experience.

The best contractors are not just technically skilled. They are easy to work with, understand your goals, and have a clear process that explains every step. There shouldn't be any confusion before you begin your project.

Your Outdoor Project Deserves First-Class Results

At First Class Lawncare LLC, we bring over a decade of experience designing and building custom outdoor spaces in Wilmington, DE, and nearby Pennsylvania towns in our service area.

We specialize in high-end patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, lighting, retaining walls, and more. Our team can even provide you with a guide to outdoor living to help you see what might be possible. Our hardscaping services are designed to help you transform your backyard into something more.

Contact Us

Contact us today for a consultation. We'd love to be the contractor you choose.