You want to make sure your property is in good hands and that doesn’t happen by accident. Here are some friendly, practical tips to help you avoid common mistakes and make the best choice for your land-clearing project.
Assuming All Land Clearing Companies are the Same
While many companies claim to offer land clearing services, not all of them have the experience and equipment to complete your project safely and effectively. A company specializing in land clearing will be familiar with the intricacies of managing large-scale tree and shrub removal, as well as navigating the challenges of different terrains. They will also have the right equipment for the job to complete your project quickly and safely.
Not Confirming the Company’s Insurance and Bonding Status
Most states require every land-clearing company to be bonded and insured. Checking to make sure that any company you work with has the appropriate coverage and certifications will ensure that you are working with a legitimate entity.
Skipping a Site Visit
A site visit is an important step for both you and the land-clearing company. Meeting them face-to-face allows you to gauge their professionalism and expertise. A site visit also allows the company to assess your property’s terrain and vegetation firsthand so they can create a precise plan and estimate. This ensures they’re well-prepared for any specific challenges and can tailor their approach to your land’s unique needs.
Overlooking Permitting Requirements
Each state and municipality has different rules when it comes to land clearing, and navigating the rules can be tricky. Make sure the company you choose is familiar with local permitting requirements and can handle all the necessary paperwork. It’s one less thing for you to worry about, and it keeps the project running smoothly.
Not Clarifying the Scope of Work
When communicating with a new company, make sure to clearly define which areas need to be cleared, what types of vegetation should be removed, and any extra services that are required. A clearly documented scope of work will help avoid surprise costs and ensure you get the results you planned for.
Not Getting a Detailed, Transparent Quote
Don’t settle for a vague estimate. When a company delivers its quote, you should expect a comprehensive breakdown of all expenses, including labor, equipment use, and waste disposal. A detailed estimate will help you compare different companies fairly and avoid unexpected costs.
Choosing Based on Price Alone
It’s always important to keep your project under budget, but choosing a company based on price alone can be risky. Maintaining high quality and reliability standards can be costly for a land clearing company, and that often means your project might cost a bit more than the lowest bid. We recommend looking for a company that offers a fair price and is committed to doing a thorough, high-quality job.
Not Discussing Post-Clearing Land Condition
There are various options for handling debris from a land-clearing project, including mulching, hauling, and burning. Some options are better for your land than others, and each solution has its own advantages and disadvantages. A competent land-clearing expert will be able to explain the various processes and help you decide which is best for your property.
Not Checking the Company’s Reviews and Reputation
Past customers are often the best source of information about a service company. We recommend considering the overall rating and then taking a minute to read through the individual reviews. Not only will the customer feedback provide a glimpse at what it’s like to work with that company, but it will also help you ensure the company excels at the aspects you value most.
By avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll be better positioned to find a company that meets and exceeds your expectations.
If you’re in Tennessee and looking for a reliable, experienced team to handle your land-clearing project, we would be happy to help. Our expert land-clearing team can meet with you and answer any questions you may have about a potential land-clearing project.
To get started, give us a call today!