9 Mistakes You Should Avoid in 2025 When Hiring Landscape Designers in Melbourne

Landscaping projects are indeed exciting. However, one must realise that a smoothly running landscaping project needs not only creativity but also expertise. To ensure your project planning and execution are hassle-free from concept to completion, specific project management skills are required. If you’re considering an investment in a landscape design project, hiring professional landscape designers can justify your investment.

At Bayside Landscaping, our experts help you make informed decisions, plan thoughtfully, and enjoy the entire transformation process. We believe that outdoor space is simply an extension of your home, adding significant value to your property in the long term.

Your choice of the landscape designer makes all the difference. The right choice can transform your outdoor space into a stunning sanctuary that blooms incredibly for years to come. However, we’ve seen that many Melbourne homeowners often make certain mistakes while hiring professionals and have to pay a heavy cost for the same later.

Let’s see what the top pitfalls are to avoid when you’re looking for professional landscaping services.

1. Confusing Designers with Contractors

Is there any difference between a landscape designer and a landscaping contractor? Yes, there’s a difference between the two. Many people use these terms interchangeably because they often fail to understand that both play different roles.

While landscape designers serve to create detailed plans, they also play a big role in plant selection. On the other hand, contractors have expertise in physical construction work. Some companies offer both.

• Designers

Conceptualise, plan, and specify materials

• Contractors

Execute the physical installation and construction

• Full-service companies

Handle both design and building phases

2. Skipping Contract Details

What should your landscaping contract cover? A comprehensive landscaping contract with the service provider serves to protect both parties to ensure the success of the project. No matter what your project size is, we never recommend a project happening without any written agreement.

Here are some of the essential contract elements –

• Detailed scope of work & the list of materials
• Key milestones of the project, along with a timeline for each
• Total costs & payment schedule
• Insurance & licensing verification
• Change order procedures
• Warranty information

3. Not Requesting Visual Plans

Typically, large-scale landscaping projects with complex design requirements and multiple elements need 3D visualisations. If your project is over $10,000, it’s paramount to request 3D visualisations. They are invaluable for successful planning and execution, and can help you prevent costly mistakes in the long run.

Here are the top advantages –

• Effective communication with the landscape gardener
• Visualisation of the final result, even before construction begins
• Informed decisions about plant placement & hardscaping
• No need for expensive changes during installation

4. Assuming Free Consultations

Do landscape designers charge separately for each consultation? Well, not always. However, it’s better to clarify fees upfront to avoid disappointments or surprises. Consultation practices may vary among the best landscapers in Melbourne.

Here’s what a typical consultation structure –

• For large projects, initial site visits may be free
• Fees often apply for detailed design consultations
• Charges apply to quality design expertise
• Some Melbourne companies offer consultation credits towards final project costs

5. Overlooking Permit Requirements

Can a designer help you with council permits? Certainly. At Bayside Landscaping, we have experienced landscape designers who understand local council requirements and can play an important role in preventing compliance issues and costly delays.

Our team helps you with –

• Identification of the types of projects that require permits
• Understanding what type of permits your project requires
• Application preparation
• Compliance of designs with local regulations
• Navigating heritage overlay restrictions

6. Unrealistic Timeline Expectations

How long does a landscape design process typically take? There’s a timeline for each stage of a project, which remains influenced by factors like material availability, weather conditions, and complexity of the project.

Here are the typical time frames –

• Initial consultation & site assessment – 1-2 weeks
• Design development & revisions – 2-4 weeks
• Council approvals – 4-8 weeks
• Construction – depends on the size and scope of your project

7. Choosing Price Over Value

The cheapest doesn’t have to be the best and fastest. Many property owners tend to automatically select the cheapest quote and ignore the long-term value of the property.

Here’s what you should consider –

• Quality of materials & workmanship
• Designer’s portfolio & experience
• Insurance coverage & warranties
• Communication & professionalism
• Long-term maintenance requirements

8. Ignoring Speciality Services

During the evaluation of landscape construction services in Melbourne, ignoring speciality services by the landscaping company can be a big mistake. Specialists often deliver superior results in their areas of expertise, which can add great value to your property.

9. Failing to Check References

A company’s track record and first-hand reviews are sufficient to make a decision about hiring them. Always make sure you verify a company’s track record because taking enough time for due diligence will prevent future headaches and ensure you’re working with qualified professionals.

• Request them to share recent client references
• Review online testimonials and ratings they’ve received
• Examine the company’s portfolio for the photographs of recently completed projects
• Verify licensing & insurance status
• Check ‘Better Business Bureau’ ratings