Landscapers....standard deposit?

horizonuser · Hazel Tree Joined: 28 Jan 2008 Posts: 14

Sorry if this isn't the correct forum but I am not sure where else to post it.

I have just given the go ahead for some landscape work to be done on my garden. The cost will be around 5,000 euro. Would anyone know what a reasonable deposit on this might be, if any? The landscapers said deposits are the norm but the amount he is looking for upfront is concerning me.

Thanks

verge · Posted: Wed Aug 20, 2008 10:44 pm Post subject:

Percentage-wise, how much is he looking for?

horizonuser · Hazel Tree Joined: 28 Jan 2008 Posts: 14

verge · Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2008 10:36 am Post subject:

It is common enough for a landscaper to ask for a deposit up front to cover the cost of materials. And lets face it as much as the house owner is afraid of being let down by the landscaper, the landscaper is afraid of being let down by the house owner.
It happens that disreputable landscapers will run off with the deposit but it is also possible that a householder will try and weasel out of payment at the end of the job, and hold out wearing the landscaper down until he eventually gives up hope of ever getting paid.
So for projects over 3000 euro, stage payments agreed by both parties to the value of the works completed or as materials delivered to site, is the best course of action. By signed contract, even better.
So a percentage of the money as soon as materials are delivered on site, Another percentage when the work reaches an agreed stage and the remainder paid on completion.
Over 25% seems a bit steep initially, 20% may be a better compromise, but it depends on has he already supplied you with a design, how well you know the landscaper, is he local, how you found out about him, satisfied local customers etc. If you were looking to go and see him tomorrow, could you find him and visit him with little problem. Could you answer all these questions now for instance?
_________________
Q. What is the best soil for growing plants?
A. Your soil.