Licensed & Insured in Markham

Common questions about licensed & insured

How much does hiring a licensed and insured landscaper cost compared to an uninsured one?

Expect quotes to run somewhat higher, often 10 to 20 percent, because insurance premiums and proper payroll for licensed workers get built into the price. For a mid-size project like a patio install or full yard renewal in Markham, that might mean a difference of a few hundred to over a thousand dollars versus a cash-only unlicensed crew. The gap covers real protection if something breaks or someone gets hurt.

How often do I need to re-verify a contractor's insurance for an ongoing relationship?

If you use the same landscaper for annual maintenance or multi-year projects, ask for an updated certificate of insurance each year, since policies renew annually and can lapse or change coverage limits. For a one-off project, verify it once before work starts and again if the timeline stretches past a policy renewal date.

What should I expect during the first visit from a licensed landscaper?

A properly run company will do a site walk, discuss scope and any permit needs (common for retaining walls over a certain height or work near property lines in Markham), and follow up with a written quote that references their insurance and, if relevant, WSIB coverage. They should also flag any underground utilities that need locating before digging.

How can I judge the quality of a landscaper beyond just checking their insurance paperwork?

Insurance confirms they're operating legitimately, but quality comes down to looking at past project photos, asking for two or three references from jobs similar to yours, and checking how they handle warranty issues on things like sod, plantings, or hardscaping. A contractor who stands behind their work after the invoice is paid is usually the safer long-term bet.