An irrigation company installs sprinklers and other water-related items in the yards of homes in order to provide irrigation. If you want to have an irrigation system installed, you might have to choose between several irrigation companies in your area. Fortunately, wading through irrigation companies does not have to be stressful if you know what to ask. Questioning a company's representative about licensing, insuring, tactics and references, among other things, will help you find the best company for the job.
The first factor to consider is the image of various irrigation companies. Judging a company solely on its image is not a solid way to evaluate, but it is a good way to get a feel for their professionalism. Cleanliness of trucks, helpfulness of staff members and openness to answer your questions are all important factors in the company's image.
If irrigation companies are not licensed and insured, they should be crossed off your list. Every country is different, but most countries require a company to pass a series of inspections on ability and practice before they are licensed. Companies should provide proof of licensing, and if they do not have it, you should be highly skeptical. Insurance is in the same realm as licensing with irrigation companies. An uninsured company is not acceptable, because if that company damages your property or others around you, you are financially responsible.
The manner in which an irrigation company handles payment and deposits is another cause for concern. Most reputable organizations will require only half of the total bill as a down payment on the installation of an irrigation system. The second half normally is due upon your approval of the work. Any company that demands the entire payment up front should be considered suspicious. This is dangerous because, without needing a second payment, there is a possibility that no work will be done or that nothing will happen if the work does not meet your approval.
Reputable irrigation companies normally will discuss post-installation plans with you as well. After the home irrigation sprinkler system is installed, ask if the company will leave your yard in tatters. A reliable irrigation company will replace all plants and shrubs and reseed any grass that has been dug up.
Finally, question the irrigation company about references. A reliable contractor will have several references from previous jobs whom you can contact and ask about their satisfaction. If a company does not provide a list, or if the information on the reference list is wrong, you should be concerned about the reliability of the irrigation company.