From First Call to Finished Landscape: What the Process Actually Looks Like
Hiring a landscape company involves a fair amount of trust. You’re inviting a crew onto your property for days or weeks, spending a meaningful amount of money, and relying on someone else’s judgment about things you may not fully understand.
This guide walks through each stage of a landscape project — the initial consultation, the design process, what construction days look like on your property, how we handle surprises, and what happens after the crews leave. We also address the questions homeowners don’t always ask out loud.
Classic Landscaping has been doing this across Greater Seattle for over 40 years. Every project teaches us something about communication and process, and the way we work today reflects thousands of those lessons.
In This Guide
What We Cover
1
What happens during a landscape consultation — what we look at, what we ask, and questions worth asking us
2
The design phase — timelines, revisions, and how a concept becomes a buildable plan
3
Construction week by week — what to expect when crews are on your property
4
Managing disruptions — parking, noise, pets, deliveries, and daily life during a project
5
Change orders and surprises — how mid-project adjustments work and what they cost
6
After the build — warranty coverage, establishment care, and the first year with your new landscape
Frequently Asked Questions About The Classic Experience
A typical first visit takes 45-60 minutes. We walk the property together, talk about what you like and don’t like about your current yard, discuss how you use the outdoor space, and identify site conditions that will affect the design. There’s no cost and no obligation.
Plan on 2-4 weeks for design, 2-4 weeks for construction on mid-size projects, and 4-8 weeks for larger full-yard renovations. The total timeline is usually 2-4 months. Starting the design process in fall or winter for a spring build gives you priority scheduling.
Minor adjustments are usually handled on the fly at no extra cost. Larger changes require a written change order with the cost impact spelled out before work proceeds. We never add charges without your approval. Speak up early — changes before concrete is poured are easy.
Landscape construction is disruptive. Expect limited access to parts of your yard, some noise during work hours, and temporary impact to driveway access on delivery days. We communicate a weekly schedule in advance and clean up daily.
Classic Landscaping warranties both workmanship and plant material. Hardscape construction is warranted against structural failure. Plant material is warranted for one year from installation, provided the landscape receives appropriate care.
You don’t need to be home every day, but being available helps. Decisions come up that our project managers handle, but anything that affects cost or design intent gets run past you first. We can set up text, email, or photo updates to keep you informed.
Ready to see how the process works firsthand?
A conversation about your property is the best way to understand what a project would involve. Reach out, and we'll set up a time to walk your yard together.
