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Landscaping Assessment SOP

1. Greet Client

  • Professionally introduce yourself and explain the purpose of the visit.

  • Let the client know you’ll walk through the area, take notes, and photos (with permission).

2. Walk Through the Site

 

  • Observe and evaluate the current condition of the space.

  • Discuss pain points, ideas, and goals with the client.

3. Client Preferences

 

  • Ask if the client has a specific vision or material preference.

  • Offer design guidance if needed.

4. Design Compatibility

 

  • Look for:

    • Structures (house, sheds, fences, decks)

    • Utility lines (overhead and underground)

    • Tight entry points or slope/access issues

    • Nearby landscaping or elements to protect

5. Determine Equipment Need

 

  • Evaluate how the installation will coordinate with:

    • House color/material

    • Walkways, driveways, existing hardscape

    • Landscaping features and grade

6. Measurements & Layout

 

  • Measure all relevant areas and record exact dimensions.

  • Sketch layout if needed for quoting or planning.

6. Photo Documentation

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  • Take clear photos of:

    • Entire project area (multiple angles)

    • Problem spots (drainage, erosion, damage, etc.)

    • Reference points (corners, structures, slope)​

    • Label or document which photos match which parts of the job.

7. Hazard & Safety Assessment

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  • Look for hazards such as:

    • Trip risks

    • Exposed/buried utilities

    • Sprinklers, septic caps, drainage grates, etc.

  • Flag any caution areas for the crew.

8. Call 811 – Utility Locating

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  • If digging is involved, note that 811 must be contacted to locate underground utilities.

  • Confirm whether the client has already contacted 811.

9. Budget Discussion

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  • Ask about the client's budget range.

  • Explain how it affects material and design options.

SERVICE-SPECIFIC ADDITIONS

 

Rock / Mulch Installation

 

  • Determine material: rock or mulch type, color, and size

  • Edging: existing or needed?Weed barrier needed?Slope or migration issues?

  • Drainage considerations?

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Retaining Wall Installation

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  • Define start/end points

  • Measure wall height and length

  • Determine drainage requirements (weeping tile, backfill, outlet)

  • If wall is over 3–4 ft, note need for geogrid reinforcement

Assess equipment access

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Sod Installation

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  • Evaluate:

    • Sunlight exposure

    • Soil condition

    • Irrigation system presence

  • Determine sod type: KY bluegrass, ryegrass, fescue, etc.

Assess need for topsoil or grading

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Hardscaping (Patios, Walkways, Driveways)

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  • Determine intended use (foot traffic, patio, vehicle load)

  • Confirm material preference: pavers, stone, concrete, etc.

  • Check for grading or leveling needs

  • Evaluate drainage direction and water runoff

  • Check for permit requirements (especially for driveways)

  • Confirm equipment access

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