How to Choose a Landscaper in Melbourne

Step 1: Check Registration and Licences

In Victoria, any builder carrying out domestic building work valued at more than $16,000 (including GST and materials) must be registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). This applies to landscaping work including retaining walls, decking, pergolas, and other structural elements.

Check the VBA practitioner register at vba.vic.gov.auto verify a landscaper's registration status. The register shows the builder's name, registration number, class of registration, and any disciplinary history. Be cautious of landscapers who claim registration is not required for their work — if the project involves structural elements over $16,000, it is.

Step 2: Verify Insurance

A professional Melbourne landscaper should carry the following insurance:

• Public liability insurance: Covers damage to your property and injuries to third parties during the work. Minimum $10 million is recommended for landscaping work. Ask for a certificate of currency dated within the last 12 months.
• Workers' compensation: Mandatory if the landscaper has employees. Without this, you could be liable for workplace injuries on your property.
• Domestic building insurance (builders warranty): Required for domestic building work over $16,000. This protects you if the builder becomes insolvent or disappears before completing the work or rectifying defects.

Always ask for certificates of currency for all insurance policies. Do not accept verbal assurances. If a landscaper refuses to provide proof of insurance, do not engage them.

Step 3: Evaluate Quotes Properly

When comparing quotes from Melbourne landscapers, do not simply choose the cheapest option. Instead, evaluate quotes on the following criteria:

• Scope detail: Does the quote clearly describe every element of work? Vague descriptions like “landscaping as discussed” are a red flag.
• Material specifications: Are specific materials, brands, and quantities listed? “Pavers” is vague; “Adbri Quadro pavers, Charcoal, 400x400x40mm, 35m²” is specific.
• Inclusions and exclusions: Does the quote clearly state what is and is not included? Common exclusions include permits, engineering, soil testing, and waste removal.
• Timeline: Is there a clear start date and estimated completion date? Does the quote account for weather delays?
• Payment terms: A reasonable payment schedule ties payments to completed stages of work, not calendar dates.

Step 4: Check References and Past Work

Ask every landscaper for at least 3 references from recent Melbourne projects similar to yours. Contact the references and ask about:

• Did the landscaper complete the work on time and on budget?
• Was the quality of workmanship satisfactory?
• Did they communicate well throughout the project?
• Were there any issues, and if so, how were they resolved?
• Would you hire them again?

Also check Google reviews, and if possible, visit a completed project in person. Photos can be misleading — seeing the quality firsthand is always better.

Step 5: Questions to Ask Before Hiring

1. Are you registered with the VBA? What is your registration number?
2. Can you provide certificates of currency for your public liability and workers' compensation insurance?
3. Will you handle building permit applications if required?
4. Who will be the site supervisor, and will they be on-site daily?
5. Do you use subcontractors? If so, are they also insured and licensed?
6. What is your warranty on workmanship?
7. How do you handle variations and additional costs during the project?
8. What is your payment schedule?
9. Can you provide 3 recent references from similar projects?
10. What is the expected start date and completion date?

Step 6: Get It in Writing

For any project over $5,000, insist on a written contract that includes: full scope of work with specifications, total price and payment schedule, start and completion dates, warranty terms, variation process, dispute resolution process, and cooling-off period details.

For projects over $16,000, a domestic building contract is a legal requirement under Victorian law. The contract must comply with the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995, which provides consumer protections including a 5-day cooling-off period.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Demanding full payment upfront or large deposits exceeding 10%
• No written quote or contract — “we'll work it out as we go”
• Unable or unwilling to provide proof of insurance and registration
• Significantly cheaper than all other quotes (may indicate cutting corners)
• Pressure to sign immediately or claims of “limited-time” pricing
• No fixed business address or only a mobile phone number
• Refusing to provide references from past clients