“Hiring the wrong landscaper in Utah can cost you thousands—in wasted money, dead plants, and unfinished projects. Here’s how to spot warning signs before you sign a contract.”
Unlicensed or inexperienced landscapers often cut corners, leaving homeowners with costly fixes.
Preview: “We’ll reveal the 5 biggest red flags—and what to ask instead to find a reliable Utah landscaper.”
🔴 Red Flag #1: No Proof of Licensing or Insurance
Why It’s Risky:
Utah requires landscapers doing over $3,000 in work to be licensed (DOPL).
Uninsured companies put you at risk for injury/property damage lawsuits.
How to Verify: ✔ Ask for their Utah contractor license number and verify it here. ✔ Request a certificate of insurance (general liability + workers’ comp).
Script to Use: “Can you share your license number and proof of insurance before we discuss the project?”
🔴 Red Flag #2: No Portfolio or Local References
Why It’s Risky:
Landscapers new to Utah may not understand xeriscaping, soil pH, or local pests.
How to Vet: ✔ Ask for before/after photos of Utah projects (look for similar climates like St. George vs. Park City). ✔ Request 3 local references and actually call them. Ask:
“Did they finish on time and budget?”
“How did they handle problems?”
Utah-Specific Tip: “Look for experience with drought-tolerant plants if you’re in the Wasatch Front.”
🔴 Red Flag #3: Pushy About Large Upfront Payments
Compare bids (but don’t automatically choose the cheapest).
Pro Tip: “Ask for a Utah-specific maintenance plan—great landscapers provide care instructions.”
📞 Need a Trusted Utah Landscaper?
Search our directory of licensed, locally-vetted professionals: Browse Utah Landscapers Now
Why It’s Risky:
Scammers often demand 50–100% upfront, then disappear or do shoddy work.
Fair Payment Terms: ✔ 10–30% deposit (standard in Utah). ✔ Pay in milestones (e.g., 30% after design, 40% after hardscaping, 30% at completion).
Script to Use: “What’s your payment schedule? I prefer to pay upon completion of project phases.”’
🔴 Red Flag #4: Vague or No Written Contract
Why It’s Risky:
Verbal agreements won’t protect you if plants die or deadlines are missed.
Utah-Specific Clause: “Include who handles snow removal if the project spans winter months.
🔴 Red Flag #5: Bad Reviews (Or No Online Presence)
Why It’s Risky:
Hidden complaints = hidden problems.
Where to Look: ✔ Google My Business (filter for “landscaping” + your city). ✔ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Utah (search here). ✔ Facebook community groups (e.g., “Utah Homeowners”).
What to Ignore:
A few nitpicky reviews are normal.
Avoid landscapers with multiple complaints about the same issue (e.g., “never finished”).
✅ The Right Way to Hire a Utah Landscaper
Interview 3+ landscapers using these red flags.
Search vetted pros in the Utah Home & Garden Directory (subtle CTA).
