Credentials are a good place to start. Do some research. We believe experience, education, and certifications are important things look for. It should also be a given that any contractor you hire (landscaping, remodeling, plumbing, etc.) carries proper insurance such as general liability and workman’s comp. Remember, when you invite an uninsured contractor to your home, you are responsible for any risk or liability that could occur.

And just because a company has proper insurance doesn’t mean they’re qualified to build a pond or waterfall. Every year, we get calls to fix water features that are poorly designed, leak, and/or have inadequate filtration. It’s important to hire a contractor who is educated and knows how to properly install a water garden.

Here are some questions to ask your prospective pond contractor:

There are several qualified companies in Kansas City that can easily answer these questions.

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, there are other questions and scenarios you may want to ponder. Before making a final hiring decision, consider:

It’s important to be proactive. Anticipate and set as many expectations up front as possible. If you have any sense of doubt because of credentials, trust, or communication, it may be a good idea to pump the brakes on the project and even look for another contractor. Sometimes it’s best to trust your gut!

The last thing we want is for you to waste your hard-earned dollars on a contractor who doesn’t respect your time or your property or who installs an inferior water feature.