What Should You Ask Before Hiring a Landscaper in Sydney? 7 Crucial Questions We Wish More Clients Knew

bondilandscapes

Aug 10, 2025 - 10:43

When it comes to transforming your outdoor space, hiring the right landscaper in Sydney can make or break your vision. At Bondi Landscapes, we’ve spent over 20 years crafting beautiful, functional outdoor spaces across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Yet, we’ve often seen homeowners unsure about what to ask or expect from a landscaper before signing a contract.

Whether you're in Bondi, Coogee, Bronte, or Vaucluse, these are the seven key questions we wish more clients asked—and how they can save you from costly missteps, delays, or regret.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured for Landscape Design and Construction?

Why it matters: Landscaping is more than planting trees and laying turf—it involves excavation, drainage, masonry, electrical, and sometimes pool construction. You need someone who’s legally certified and insured to manage every aspect safely.

What we offer at Bondi Landscapes:
We’re fully licensed (Licence No: 297811C) and insured to deliver both landscape design and construction, including bespoke pool building. Our team handles all legal compliance so you’re protected at every stage of the project.

Pro tip: Ask to see a current licence and verify it with NSW Fair Trading. This protects you against potential liability and poor workmanship.

2. Do You Offer Both Design and Construction Services? Or Just One?

Why it matters: A disconnect between design and construction can lead to unexpected costs, miscommunication, or compromises in your vision.

At Bondi Landscapes, we design and build in-house, providing a seamless experience—from concept to completion. This ensures design intent isn’t lost in translation.

Our approach:

Expert consultation at your home with director Antony Aris
Bespoke design fee proposal tailored to your needs
Transparent quoting before any construction begins

3. Can I See Examples of Your Past Work?

Why it matters: A portfolio speaks louder than promises. It shows whether a landscaper's style, standards, and versatility match your goals.

Explore our Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for real project photos—from sleek Bronte courtyards to lush Clovelly retreats.

We also proudly showcase:

Award-winning designs (2019 Landscape Excellence Award)
Residential projects under $75K and high-end bespoke builds
Custom features: Fire pits, pools, patios, fences, greenhouses

Client Feedback: “Bondi Landscapes transformed our tired backyard into an award-winning haven. The team was incredible from day one.” — Coogee Homeowner

4. What Areas Do You Serve in Sydney?

Why it matters: Local expertise equals local advantage. Landscapers working in your area are familiar with local council regulations, soil types, climate conditions, and aesthetic trends.

We serve the entire Eastern Suburbs and Inner Sydney, including:

Bondi, North Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte
Coogee, South Coogee, Maroubra
Rose Bay, Randwick, Vaucluse, Dover Heights
Double Bay, Rushcutters Bay, Paddington, Surry Hills
Centennial Park, Moore Park, Kensington, Clovelly

With 20+ years of experience in these neighbourhoods, we’ve mastered how to make outdoor spaces thrive in Sydney’s coastal climate.

5. What’s Your Process From Consultation to Completion?

Why it matters: Transparency reduces stress. You should know what to expect, when to expect it, and what happens if something changes.

At Bondi Landscapes, our 3-stage process keeps you fully informed:

Stage 1: Consultation

We meet onsite to understand your vision, goals, lifestyle, and budget. You’ll speak with Antony Aris—our director and licensed pool builder.

Stage 2: Concept + Design

Our landscape architects tailor a bespoke plan that reflects your vision and Sydney’s environment. We prioritise functionality and style.

Stage 3: Construction & Handover

Our in-house team manages every detail, from demolition to planting. You'll receive a garden that’s ready to enjoy—no loose ends, no third parties.

6. Can You Work Within My Budget Without Compromising Quality?

Why it matters: A good landscaper knows how to stretch your budget creatively without cutting corners.

We’ve designed landscapes from under $30K to high-end custom builds over $150K, always with:

Transparent itemised quotes
Flexible, phased approaches
Cost-saving suggestions that don’t compromise design quality

Did You Know?
You don’t have to install everything at once. Smart staging lets you build in phases—great for young families or renovators managing cash flow.

7. How Do You Ensure the Garden Will Thrive Long-Term?

Why it matters: A beautiful garden on day one is pointless if it withers by year two.

We design for sustainability and ease of maintenance, using:

Drought-tolerant plants suitable for Sydney’s conditions
Proper irrigation and drainage design
Long-lasting hardscape materials that age gracefully
Ongoing maintenance advice or packages if you want help

Our horticulturists choose plants that suit your lifestyle and sunlight exposure—so you’re not stuck watering every day or replacing dead plants by spring.

A Real Story: From Tired Yard to Tranquil Sanctuary in Bronte

A family in Bronte approached us with a cluttered yard, patchy lawn, and zero shade. Their vision? A usable garden that blended luxury with nature.

We delivered:

A multi-level garden with built-in seating and deck
Low-maintenance, native planting
Custom fire pit and ambient lighting for evening use
Pool landscaping to tie in with the home's modern aesthetic

Now, it's their favourite place to unwind on weekends.

“Bondi Landscapes nailed the brief. The space feels like a retreat—but it’s our home!” — Bronte Homeowner

Why Bondi Landscapes?

We’re more than just landscapers near you—we’re award-winning landscape designers and construction experts. Clients trust us because we offer:

20+ years of experience
Licensed professionals
Local knowledge of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs
Award-winning service
End-to-end project delivery

We don’t just build gardens. We build relationships.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Hire a Landscaper—Partner with a Team That Cares

Your outdoor space is an investment. It should feel like a sanctuary, reflect your lifestyle, and grow beautifully with time. The right landscaper will not just meet expectations—they’ll exceed them.

Before you sign anything, ask the tough questions. Demand clarity, proof, and passion.