The first quote: 5 things your landscaper needs to know before starting a design project

Starting a garden renovation project is an exciting journey, but to get an accurate quote and a design you truly love, you need to provide your landscaper with key information upfront. Knowing what to tell a landscape designer immediately shows them you are a serious customer, saving time and ensuring they can give you the best, most competitive quotes.

Here are five essential points for your garden design consultation checklist:

1. Clear access and utility locations

This practical information dramatically affects the project scope and budget when getting landscape quotes.

• Access: Can a mini-digger get into the back garden? Will all materials have to come through the house? (This affects labour time and costs).
• Utilities: Where are the main drainage runs, septic tanks, inspection covers, or underground cables/pipes? This impacts digging work.

2. The budget range and design scale

Be transparent about your realistic budget for starting a garden renovation project.

• Budget: Rather than asking, “how much would this cost?”, tell them your comfortable budget range (e.g., £5k to £8k). This allows the designer to scale their proposal (e.g., simple paving slabs vs. expensive natural stone).
• Priorities: What is non-negotiable? (e.g., “I must have a large patio” or “I need a dedicated area for the children”).

3. How the garden will be used (the functional brief)

A garden is a functional space, not just a picture. Tell your landscaper the ‘why’ behind the design.

• Living: Is it for entertaining (large patio/outdoor kitchen) or relaxing (secluded seating area)?
• Maintenance: Do you want high-maintenance borders, or a low-maintenance garden for busy people?
• People and pets: Will children or pets need a secure, specific area?

4. The unchangeable constraints (sun, shade, soil)

The fixed conditions of the site dictate the planting and design. Knowing what to tell a landscape designer about these features is vital.

• Sun/shade: Note which areas get morning, afternoon, or no sun in summer.
• Drainage: Mention any areas that are currently waterlogged or prone to flooding (a major design constraint).
• Boundaries: Which boundaries are shared with neighbours, and what is their current condition?

5. Your favourite images (the inspiration)

Visual inspiration communicates your style much faster than words.

• Style: Show them 3–5 pictures from magazines or online sources that capture the feel or style you want. Specify whether you want hard landscaping (paving, walls) or soft landscaping (plants, borders) to dominate.

This comprehensive approach on how to brief a garden designer ensures your first quote is accurate, saving you time and frustration later on.

Why use Rated People for landscape quotes?

The first quote is a huge commitment. Our platform connects you with experienced landscape gardeners who are vetted and professional. By using the garden design consultation checklist to brief them clearly, you will receive tailored, accurate quotes that allow you to compare professionals with confidence and start your garden renovation project successfully.

With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.