Planning · 4 minute read
How to prepare for a landscape construction site visit
A productive site visit is not about having every decision made. It is about giving the contractor enough information to understand the problem, the desired outcome and the practical limits of the property.
Explain what is not working now
Start with the problem in plain language: the lawn is unusable, water sits against the house, a wall is moving, the side access is unsafe or the yard has no level area. This helps the site assessment focus on causes rather than jumping straight to products.
Then explain how you want to use the finished space. Parking, entertaining, play, pets, lower maintenance and garden area can lead to very different layouts even on the same block.
Take photos that show context
Wide photos are more useful than close-ups alone. Photograph the work area from several corners, the route from the street, changes in level, existing drainage, neighbouring boundaries and anything that must stay.
If water is part of the problem, include images during rain. If access is tight, measure the narrowest width and photograph turns, height restrictions and surface changes.
Separate priorities from optional finishes
List the items the project must solve, then the features you would like if the budget allows. For example, drainage and a stable wall may be essential, while a premium paver, built-in seating or extra screening may be optional.
This gives the contractor room to shape a complete base scope and present upgrades without guessing which outcomes matter most to you.
Be open about budget and timing
A budget range helps test whether the desired scope and finishes are aligned. It does not lock you into spending that amount; it prevents time being spent designing a solution that cannot be delivered within the available funds.
Also mention deadlines, access restrictions, pets, tenants, planned building work and any known approvals or plans. SJB Civil uses this information to set the right next step and prepare a clearer written scope.
Quick checklist
What to send with your enquiry
- Suburb and preferred contact details
- Wide site and access photos
- Rough lengths, widths and level changes
- The main problem and desired finished use
- Must-haves, optional items, budget range and timing
Need advice for the actual site?
This guide is general information. Ground conditions, access, loads, services, drainage outlets and approval requirements are specific to each property. SJB Civil can inspect the site and define the practical next step in writing.