Hiring any contractor to work on your property will require doing some careful research, and the same applies to land clearing. While it’s tempting to skip the legwork and just let the least expensive or most responsive company win the project, that’s a risky strategy. Choosing the right company to do the work eliminates the aggravation and expense that can come from mistakes or a lack of experience, especially with vegetation removal and site preparation.
Experience makes these processes simpler and could preserve the property’s integrity more reliably. With that in mind, you’ll want to avoid the seven common mistakes below by hiring the right team for your land clearing and forestry mulching needs.
Mistake 1: Not Getting At Least Two Estimates
The estimate-gathering process for land clearing is about more than just giving you a price – it tells you how the company:
- Evaluates the scope of the project
- Determines the best approach
- Selects the equipment
- Identifies potential challenges before and during the project
Getting several estimates from different companies allows you to select the company that will do the best job at the right price, and that doesn’t always mean the least expensive. Some companies may charge extra for services like stump removal or land leveling, while others include those charges. Arming yourself with these details helps you make the best decision within your budget.
Mistake 2: Not Asking About the Company’s Experience With Similar Jobs
Just because a company offers land clearing or forestry mulching services doesn’t mean they have the experience or equipment to do it professionally. Before hiring anyone, check that they have actual experience working on projects similar to the one you have in mind.
Experience on the job ensures that the company knows the best approach, understands the local regulations, and can produce quality results. Don’t be afraid to ask the company to provide proof of their claims, either. Professional service providers should be able to show you photos or connect you with customers who can attest to their skills.
Mistake 3: Not Understanding the Scope of the Work
Every project is different, and it’s critical that your contractor takes the time to thoroughly inspect your property before providing an estimate.
Multiple aspects, from the type and density of the vegetation to the soil type and slope of the land, go into a safely clearing land. Failing to account for these factors can cause significant damage. For example, removing too much vegetation or not implementing grading services to account for the slope can contribute to excessive soil erosion.
Any estimates you get from contractors should clearly outline the scope of the work in terms of what you want them to accomplish and the unique features of your property. Without these details, you may end up with a much higher bill than expected or project delays.
Mistake 4: Not Asking for References
Reputable land-clearing companies will be more than willing to connect you with previous clients. When they do, get these clients’ opinions on the company’s demeanor, approach, team, and work.
You can also look at reviews online, watching for patterns in the customer comments that could raise red flags.
Mistake 5: Hiring the Wrong Type of Company
Whether you need a space cleared before building a new home or just want to clear out an unsightly, overgrown corner of your property, you must hire specialists in land clearing.
Tree services and excavation companies can remove trees and clear densely wooded areas. However, that’s not the same specialized knowledge and equipment as you’ll find with a dedicated land clearing enterprise. If there are unexpected challenges and swathes of debris, you’ll want experts who know how to handle themselves at every step.
Mistake 6: Failing to Verify Credentials
One mistake you’ll surely want to avoid in land clearing is hiring a company that doesn’t have the correct licenses and insurance. Doing so can spell disaster if things go even slightly wrong during the project.
A license attests to the company’s legitimacy. These policies provide assurance that the crew has the proper training to operate the equipment and safely remove vegetation.
Insurance covers inherently dangerous work. If the contractor lacks coverage, you could be liable if anyone sustains an injury or the work causes property damage.
Mistake 7: Starting Work Without a Contract
Lastly, before starting a project, it’s absolutely imperative that you have a written contract detailing the following:
- The scope of the work
- Fees
- Project timeline
- Payment terms
- Agreed milestones
Is everyone on the same page? A contract safeguards both you and the company.
Choose Tuscaloosa’s Highest-Rated Experts
Are you a property owner who needs land clearing in Tuscaloosa, Alabama? Add Sawtooth Land Development to the list of prospective contractors! Call us at (205) 523-3506 to schedule a consultation and get an estimate from the area’s premier provider of site preparation and clearing services.
