Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Hayward, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Completing a full-scale landscaping project requires heavy equipment and intense labor. If you want to add complex elements such as an irrigation system or fire pit, you'll need someone with construction and machinery expertise.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaping contractor if you’re doing a total yard overhaul or lack basic lawn expertise.

Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and prevent you from making costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Hayward Landscaping Company

Look for a landscaper that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

Different landscaping companies serve different lawn needs. Some focus on services to help with yard health and maintenance, such as mulching, pruning, controlling weeds, fertilizing, and mowing. These companies often also provide pest management and tree cutting services.

Plan to hire a full-service landscaping company for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

Licensing and Experience

Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas like outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. A company should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might also employ the following certified staff members:

• Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

It may also hold certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Ask to see a certificate of insurance or a provider's insurance numbers before starting a project. All landscaping companies should be bonded and insured. Contractors will usually have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage.

Reputation and Reviews

We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's customer experience and overall reputation. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to choose a provider with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after images. You can ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaper. These practices include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should select plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. The work on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

You should request quotes from multiple companies. This allows you to compare services and cost and can even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Hayward

Generally, landscaping costs $34–$51 per hour in Hayward. These costs vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Larger projects need more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. The price will also be influenced by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,650 - $18,199
Landscaping Design	$2,561 - $3,415
Landscaping LandGrading	$452 - $2,711
Landscaping Mulch	$27 - $136
Planting FlowerBeds	$90 - $1,807
Planting Trees	$237 - $395
Sodding	$45 - $54
Swimming Pool	$34,336 - $90,358