Whether you are searching for a professional irrigation contractor to install a system or to service an existing system, any professional you consider should have certain qualifications to do your work. The bottom line is that you are not just buying an irrigation system, but you are also buying the services of a contractor. At some, point you have to say, “I trust this contractor to do my work.” and sign the contract. As in all human activities, there are different levels of competence in the irrigation industry. Your job is to find the professional to do the work that will satisfy you.

The following is a checklist to help you develop the level of trust you need to make this decision:

Insurance

• General liability  of 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 for residential
• Auto insurance

License

Whatever you do, hire a licensed contractor, which demonstrates knowledge and professionalism in there field, and gives you piece of mind that the job will be correct.

• Training and education
• You might want to ask for proof of education and training.

References
The names and telephone numbers of references should be provided at your request.

Behavior and appearance

• Telephone etiquette. Look for contractors who promptly and politely return your calls. Arrive on time for meetings.
• Is dressed neatly and professionally. The visual image the contractor presents will be appropriate. Neat, clean and professional appearance is required.
• Arrives in well-maintained vehicle.

Bids/Proposal

• Get a written bid. The professional contractor should provide a written bid. With the job described and a dollar amount attached to it. Remember the lowest bid is not always the best.

Water Management

• Water use and management is an issue of great importance. Everyone recognizes that, in the future, irrigation systems will have to be more water-wise than ever. The contractor you hire must be sensitive to the realities of water in your area. The contractor should have an expertise in managing water and be able to install an irrigation system that will provide you with the look you want while minimizing your use of water.
  Do not settle for a contractor who is not top-notch in water management.

Consumer info

• Don’t Get Soaked! Hire a Licensed contractor. When you hire a licensed contractor, you know you are getting a professional who is experienced, highly trained and working to meet irrigation industry standards.

Efficient Irrigation is a sophisticated process

• With irrigation systems that deliver exactly the right amount of water at the right time to your lawn, plants and tree’s you can be assured of environmentally sound and efficient results. The irrigation industry offers reliable options and affordable technology for water conservation and efficient water distribution to protect your landscaping investment.

Before you dive head first into any irrigation system, you should:

• Verify the contractors credentials
• Ask for proof of liability insurance
• Request portfolio of past work
• Request list of references
• Get a written proposal
• Make sure they inspect your property before they bid
• Make certain all bids are same product and/or services
• Set a time limit on installation and have contractor insert into contract
• Be sure they install the backflow prevention device required by local codes to protect drinking water
• Find a professional to do the work that will satisfy you

When you follow these guidelines and hire a licensed contractor, you will get the finest, most water efficient sprinkler system with years of trouble-free operation. In addition, you will make quite a splash in your neighborhood.