You’ve hired a landscaper, the project is scheduled, and you’re ready to see your yard transformed. A little preparation on your end can make the whole process smoother, faster, and less stressful. Here’s what to do before the crew arrives.
Clear the Work Area
Remove portable items from the work zone: patio furniture, grills, planters, hoses, toys, and lawn ornaments. Anything that’s in the way will need to be moved, and moving it yourself saves time and protects your belongings.
If you have a fence gate that provides access to the backyard, make sure it opens freely. If the work involves the front yard, clear parked vehicles from the driveway or street where the crew will need access.
Pro Tip
Take a photo of your yard before the project starts. It’s satisfying to compare the before and after, and it gives you documentation of the starting conditions.
Mark Utilities & Sprinklers
Call 811 (the national utility locating service) at least a few business days before your project. They’ll mark the locations of underground gas, electric, water, and cable lines at no charge. This is required by law for any project that involves digging.
If you have a sprinkler system, let your landscaper know where the heads, lines, and control valves are. Flagging them with small stakes helps the crew avoid accidental damage.
Same goes for invisible dog fences, septic system components, or any other underground features that aren’t obvious from the surface.
Communicate With Your Landscaper
Before work begins, confirm the scope of the project, the expected timeline, and where the crew will stage equipment and materials. Good communication upfront prevents misunderstandings during the build.
If you have specific concerns — a fragile garden bed you want protected, a neighbor’s property line you’re worried about, or a daily schedule that affects noise timing — share those in advance.
Designate how you’ll communicate during the project. Some homeowners prefer to check in at the end of each day; others prefer texts with photo updates. Let your landscaper know your preference.
Plan for Access & Parking
Landscaping crews arrive with trucks, trailers, and equipment. Make sure there’s room for them to park and unload without blocking neighbors or creating safety issues.
If the work is in the backyard, ensure there’s a clear path from the street or driveway to the work area. The crew may need to bring in equipment, soil, stone, or other heavy materials.
If you share a driveway or have an HOA with parking restrictions, coordinate in advance so there are no surprises on day one.
What to Do During the Project
Keep children and pets away from the work area for safety. Landscaping involves heavy equipment, sharp tools, and deep holes.
Expect noise, dust, and temporary mess. A landscaping project is construction — it gets worse before it gets better. Trust the process.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, but try to direct them to the project lead rather than individual crew members. This keeps communication clear and the work moving efficiently.
Pro Tip
A cooler of water or a pot of coffee for the crew is always appreciated — it’s a small gesture that goes a long way.
