FAQs

 

I already have a landscaper. Why don't I just call him / her for advice? 

One problem with the landscape service industry is low barriers to entry. For every qualified, knowledgeable landscaper, there are a dozen "professional landscapers” with a pickup truck and a shovel, trying to convince you that they can do anything, and they do it best.  Here's a tip: they don't. Also, many service providers approach clients and properties with an eye for selling additional services or designs, and ignore basic rules of nature or the land just to make a few extra bucks.

For property owners who want objective, expert information for the sake of making lasting and effective improvements, The Grade Outdoors is an unbiased alternative and bridges the information gap to ensure that work done on their land is done properly and conscientiously. 

 

If I'm working with an architect or designer, should I call The Grade Outdoors?

First of all, good for you! If you're working with a landscape architect or a certified designer, you're in good hands. These professionals are qualified to provide you with not only a high understanding of your property, but also suggestions, complete plans, and specifications for installations. If working with a designer, it is recommended to hire one that is certified. If your designer isn't, or offers design as one of a slew of landscape services, The Grade Outdoors can help with planning and review of your project to make sure the right considerations are being made and your dollars are well spent.

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What do I get with a landscape inspection? 

The inspection accomplishes 3 things:  Identifies landscape and grounds components, evaluates each item, and reports on recommended actions and guidance.  The inspector will visit the property and spend approximately 3 hours (typical 15,000 SF property) walking the site and evaluating each item and area.  A comprehensive report with photos, evaluations, and comments is prepared and delivered to the client.  Clients are invited to the inspection to see items firsthand and may follow up with questions after report delivery. 

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What do I do with the inspection report?  How do I use it? 

Just like any tool that one would use for certain jobs, the inspection report is a tool that may be referred to whenever working on the landscape.  We encourage clients to keep the report someplace handy for reference and to add new records to it as improvements and changes are made over time.  The site analysis will provide guidance on proper plant selection and placement.  The report includes recommendations on improved maintenance practices that may be utilized.  Clients may share relevant parts of the report with contractors to assist with problem solving or use the report information for project planning. 

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How much does landscape consulting cost? 

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Residential landscape and grounds inspections:

• $375.   for properties up to 15,000 square feet

• $475.   for properties up to 25,000 SF

• $550.   for properties up to an acre in size.

 

Additional charges apply for more extensive properties and for add-on services (irrigation, lighting evaluation, etc.)

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For general consulting and initial site visits, $175 is the charge for the first hour; $100 per hour thereafter. Travel charges outside Morris, Essex, Union, and northern Somerset counties (NJ) are generally billed at $50 per hour.

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How much are other services? 

Charges for landscape services provided by The Grade Outdoors depend on the size and scope of the project. Because every project is different, it's difficult to give a generic price. Contact us to tell us more about what you're looking for and we can work up an estimate!