10 QUESTIONS
TO ASK A CONTRACTOR
BEFORE YOU INVITE THEM
TO YOUR HOME
Congratulations on choosing to be an informed consumer! The following questions should help you be more prepared to choose a contractor for your pond or water feature project. These questions can also easily be translated to other home improvement projects, as well. We have published OUR answers below each question.
We hope you enjoy reading this report at your leisure, and we wish you the best of luck with your project. If we can be of any help, visit our website, contact us at 623-572-5607, or email us.
We hope you enjoy reading this report at your leisure, and we wish you the best of luck with your project. If we can be of any help, visit our website, contact us at 623-572-5607, or email us.
1. Are You a Licensed Contractor?
We wish we could file this under “duh,” but there are still people out there who hire someone based on their perty smile, or fast-talking promises. First and foremost, you should always, always, always (and we can’t stress this enough), always use a licensed contractor for any project around your home. Yes, it may cost a little more than flagging down the beat-up truck driving through your neighborhood with a lawn mower in the back, but your home is probably your largest investment (even if it’s a part-time residence), and as such deserves to be protected. We’ve all heard the news stories about the poor folks who hired some guy, didn’t check his credentials, and then got taken for a ride. He either disappeared with their money or just didn’t finishing the job – or worse. This won’t happen to you if you use a licensed contractor. You wouldn’t let just anyone watch your children, don’t let just anyone into your home.
A licensed contractor has passed muster with the Registrar of Contractors of the State of Arizona. This means that they have at least 3 years of experience in their current field, have passed a series of tests, have passed a background check, are bondable, and carry appropriate insurance policies. If a licensed contractor screws up, you can file a claim and get reimbursed for the money you have paid out from a little thing called the Recovery Fund. Now that’s peace of mind!
Check the number you’re given with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to make sure the contractor is in good standing and doesn’t have a bunch of complaints registered by calling 602-542-1502, or do a search online at http://www.rc.state.az.us.
We wish we could file this under “duh,” but there are still people out there who hire someone based on their perty smile, or fast-talking promises. First and foremost, you should always, always, always (and we can’t stress this enough), always use a licensed contractor for any project around your home. Yes, it may cost a little more than flagging down the beat-up truck driving through your neighborhood with a lawn mower in the back, but your home is probably your largest investment (even if it’s a part-time residence), and as such deserves to be protected. We’ve all heard the news stories about the poor folks who hired some guy, didn’t check his credentials, and then got taken for a ride. He either disappeared with their money or just didn’t finishing the job – or worse. This won’t happen to you if you use a licensed contractor. You wouldn’t let just anyone watch your children, don’t let just anyone into your home.
A licensed contractor has passed muster with the Registrar of Contractors of the State of Arizona. This means that they have at least 3 years of experience in their current field, have passed a series of tests, have passed a background check, are bondable, and carry appropriate insurance policies. If a licensed contractor screws up, you can file a claim and get reimbursed for the money you have paid out from a little thing called the Recovery Fund. Now that’s peace of mind!
Check the number you’re given with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to make sure the contractor is in good standing and doesn’t have a bunch of complaints registered by calling 602-542-1502, or do a search online at http://www.rc.state.az.us.
Yes, we are! Our license number is 277878.
The work was done quickly and professionally with the final results being amazing. They listened to our ideas and pictures to provide us with a detailed plan of what to expect and the cost. The guys were friendly, efficient, and skilled. First-rate craftsmanship with incredible results. You pay for quality, but I would consider this a bargain. True craftsmen, the Pond Gnome will help take your yard over the top with a beautiful water feature and a good price. The company is professional, efficient, and kept us in the loop through the whole process. |
Clint Smith, Phoenix, AZ, clintmsmith@hotmail.com
2. Can I See A Copy of Your Contract?
Now, about those contracts. You should always have a written contract with anyone about to do work for you. This just makes good business sense. It ensures that everyone involved has come to an agreement, and there aren’t any hidden surprises or misunderstandings. Even if it’s just a work order that you have to initial, it’s a good idea. Yes, verbal contracts are technically enforceable in the State of Arizona, but good luck proving a meeting of the minds! Oh, and be sure to actually read the contract to make sure you know exactly what you’ll be getting for your money, which includes their after-the-sale service and warranty information. If you don’t understand something, ask. Some people talk a good game, but then won’t put it in writing – a very bad sign – throw them out.
And if you change the scope of work during the project, get a written change order for all the same reasons listed above.
Now, about those contracts. You should always have a written contract with anyone about to do work for you. This just makes good business sense. It ensures that everyone involved has come to an agreement, and there aren’t any hidden surprises or misunderstandings. Even if it’s just a work order that you have to initial, it’s a good idea. Yes, verbal contracts are technically enforceable in the State of Arizona, but good luck proving a meeting of the minds! Oh, and be sure to actually read the contract to make sure you know exactly what you’ll be getting for your money, which includes their after-the-sale service and warranty information. If you don’t understand something, ask. Some people talk a good game, but then won’t put it in writing – a very bad sign – throw them out.
And if you change the scope of work during the project, get a written change order for all the same reasons listed above.
We absolutely spell everything out in our 1-page contract. And we are more than happy to provide you with a copy of it before you sign.
Our experience with the entire staff of The Pond Gnome was so positive. Paul talked us through what we could expect our water feature to look like and the written contract contained all items that we spoke about. No deletions or surprises. The construction crew arrived on time each day, were prepared with the necessary materials and always stated what they were to do on that day. Any questions or concerns that we had were addressed to our satisfaction. At the end of each day they cleaned up and prepared for the next day of construction. They were professional, efficient and perfectionistic. Especially the person who we dubbed the 'rock whisperer!' (Roy) We would highly recommend this company. |
Jerry and Melanie Daugherty, Phoenix, AZ, 602-439-7168
3. How Many Years Have You Been in Business in ARIZONA, And What is Your Educational Background?
This question won’t necessarily tell you how good they are at what they do, but it will give you an idea of how much practice they’ve had. Remember, anyone can start a business, print up business cards and flyers, and call themselves a contractor. Happens all the time. It’s the guy who’s been around for a couple of years that will probably still be in business should you need his help in the future. And since our Sonoran Desert ecosystem is very different from other parts of the country, experience in the pond industry here in Arizona is very important if you want someone knowledgeable and trained in what works with our super high pH and dry climate.
This question won’t necessarily tell you how good they are at what they do, but it will give you an idea of how much practice they’ve had. Remember, anyone can start a business, print up business cards and flyers, and call themselves a contractor. Happens all the time. It’s the guy who’s been around for a couple of years that will probably still be in business should you need his help in the future. And since our Sonoran Desert ecosystem is very different from other parts of the country, experience in the pond industry here in Arizona is very important if you want someone knowledgeable and trained in what works with our super high pH and dry climate.
Arizona born and raised, We have been in the landscaping industry since 1993, and have been doing business as The Garden Gnome, L.L.C., dba The Pond Gnome, since January 2000. Not only are we Master Gardeners and have degrees from both Glendale Community College and ASU in business and landscape design, but have certifications from the Desert Botanical Garden, the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, and have attended numerous courses on various aspects of landscape and gardening given by the Arizona Landscape Contractors' Association and the Arizona Municipal Water Users' Association. We regularly attend on-going education courses given by other pond experts, which keeps us up to date on the latest research, development, and technologies. We believe that life is an on-going learning process, and we strive to ever enhance our knowledge.
I have really enjoyed working with the Pond Gnome! Everyone I have talked to has been knowledgeable about ponds and water features in general and also seem very well acquainted with the pond they service at one of our rental properties. I absolutely recommend them to anyone with a pond or considering installing one. |
Kirby Doty, TCT Property Management Services, 480-217-2855
4. Are You Dedicated to Pond Building, and are Considered A Pond Expert?
If someone is a “Jack of All Trades,” how good can they really be at any one of them? A contractor who is dedicated to pond building has made it his life’s work. He most likely attends continuing education seminars and classes to keep abreast of new ideas and technology. He is focused on providing the best possible product to his clients.
If someone is a “Jack of All Trades,” how good can they really be at any one of them? A contractor who is dedicated to pond building has made it his life’s work. He most likely attends continuing education seminars and classes to keep abreast of new ideas and technology. He is focused on providing the best possible product to his clients.
Yes, we are! We have been dedicated to the design, installation & maintenance of living water features for over 19 years. We will, on occasion, provide full-service landscape design and installation for our pond customers, if our construction schedule permits. Otherwise, we have several landscape architects and designers with whom we work cooperatively.
Our original pond was designed by a very expensive local ‘artist.’ He assured us that he was a pond expert, and that our pond would provide years of beauty and enjoyment. Needless to say, three months later, we had a fuzzy sludge hole that was filled with disgusting algae. After a year of attempting every remedy known to man, we were on the verge of calling a contractor to fill in our algae hole. |
Michal and Keith Joyner, Scottsdale, AZ
5. What Construction Method Do You Use?
A concrete bowl is great for a bird bath or a swimming pool, but Koi and plants won’t be thrilled. It’s very high maintenance because it must be cleaned often, or you must chemically treat it, or have a lot of filtration equipment that you can’t hide from sight. Pool pumps and submersible pumps are not specifically designed for a pond environment and will not pass larger debris; therefore, they will need to be removed and cleaned as often as twice daily, depending on your circumstances.
You need to ask yourself if you want it to be organic and low maintenance; is the bottom line price the main motivation; or do you simply want a fountain? Clarify in your own mind what you’re looking for, and it will be easier to shop for it.
A concrete bowl is great for a bird bath or a swimming pool, but Koi and plants won’t be thrilled. It’s very high maintenance because it must be cleaned often, or you must chemically treat it, or have a lot of filtration equipment that you can’t hide from sight. Pool pumps and submersible pumps are not specifically designed for a pond environment and will not pass larger debris; therefore, they will need to be removed and cleaned as often as twice daily, depending on your circumstances.
You need to ask yourself if you want it to be organic and low maintenance; is the bottom line price the main motivation; or do you simply want a fountain? Clarify in your own mind what you’re looking for, and it will be easier to shop for it.
We specialize in living ecosystem water features, which can be customized to fit almost anywhere. We include everything that a well-designed water feature needs: mechanical and biological filtration, liner and underlayment, rock work, circulation system using a high-efficiency pump designed for ponds, underwater lighting, waterfall, and automatic fill valve. We can even supply available aquatic plants and vector control (mosquito minnows).
To think that I almost installed a cold, dead, concrete waterfall. I shudder at the thought! |
Jim & Mary Gleason, Scottsdale, AZ
6. Do You Use an All-Organic Method of Construction and Maintenance?
If you’re interested in an organic, low maintenance, living ecosystem pond or water feature, you want to be sure that the person you’re interviewing for your project uses that type of construction method. The contractor who uses the organic method will understand how to establish a complete nitrogen cycle. This means no chemically-dependent water source, which in turn means that not only can birds and pets drink from it freely, but you can enjoy it, too!
If you’re interested in an organic, low maintenance, living ecosystem pond or water feature, you want to be sure that the person you’re interviewing for your project uses that type of construction method. The contractor who uses the organic method will understand how to establish a complete nitrogen cycle. This means no chemically-dependent water source, which in turn means that not only can birds and pets drink from it freely, but you can enjoy it, too!
Our systems are completely organic. As a matter of fact, we promote organics and integrated pest management in all aspect of landscape and gardening, and do our best to educate our clients in that direction (we promise not to nag, though).
I LOVE my waterfall, stream and fire-pit!!!!!!!! Words cannot describe how much I'm enjoying it. I sat out by it last night and could have sworn I was out in the woods at a campsite. I told my boyfriend that when he gets back we are setting the tent up out there. How cool is it that we can leave the city and still be able to go inside and use the restroom?! Heck, we even have a few bears roaming around out there to add to the experience. O.K. they're just big dogs, but we'll still have to hang our food in a tree! Thanks again, it is so refreshing to see a company that truly works so hard to deliver a product with such enthusiastic professionalism. |
Karin Cawley, Scottsdale, AZ, 602-803-9003
7. How Many Ponds Have You Built in Arizona Using This Method of Construction?
If the contractor normally builds concrete bowls, but you’re interested in an organic water garden, keep looking! Yeah, yeah, he says he can do that, too, but it’s really a specialized field and takes some practice and education to do it right. And make sure he’s done at least some work right here in Phoenix, Arizona. A lot of guys move here, but then try to apply their Midwest or East US knowledge to our Sonoran Desert environment. What works there often times has the opposite effect here. See if you can go look at some of their work.
If the contractor normally builds concrete bowls, but you’re interested in an organic water garden, keep looking! Yeah, yeah, he says he can do that, too, but it’s really a specialized field and takes some practice and education to do it right. And make sure he’s done at least some work right here in Phoenix, Arizona. A lot of guys move here, but then try to apply their Midwest or East US knowledge to our Sonoran Desert environment. What works there often times has the opposite effect here. See if you can go look at some of their work.
We have built over 500 living water features since January 2000. We are also an Arizona born and raised pond contractor, intimately familiar with how to work with our unique Sonoran desert environment to create a sustainable, low-maintenance outdoor living space for Arizona homeowners.
All the normal complaints about contractors... disorganized, over budget, workers not supervised. poor quality, not noting clients comments or input, etc.... none of these apply to The Pond Gnome. Once the basic plan is done they have a proven formula to construct the pond and EXCEED expectations. We would recommend them to both the novice and experienced by owners. |
Mike & Bonnie Wolfe, Scottsdale AZ
8. What Can I Expect my Monthly Operating Costs to be, and How Much Maintenance Time Will it Take?
The initial cost is only part of the equation. Typically, you can pay for quality up front, or pay over and over again for a lesser product. For example, if the contractor you are interviewing is using a pool pump to circulate a pond (i.e. the pump is measured in horsepower), then you will have either a situation where the pump does not run 24/7, providing the kind of circulation necessary to keep water clear and oxygenated, or you’ll be spending possibly hundreds of dollars a month to keep it running. Not to mention, it’s rather noisy. The pump, which is the heart of the circulation system, needs to run 24/7 to ensure that debris are skimmed off the surface of the water so that they do not saturate and sink to the bottom, thereby becoming food for free-floating algae, and a clean-up nightmare for you. A circulation system in a pond is a little more costly to install up front, but a whole lot easier on the back! Remember, if you don’t have a filter, you ARE the filter.
The initial cost is only part of the equation. Typically, you can pay for quality up front, or pay over and over again for a lesser product. For example, if the contractor you are interviewing is using a pool pump to circulate a pond (i.e. the pump is measured in horsepower), then you will have either a situation where the pump does not run 24/7, providing the kind of circulation necessary to keep water clear and oxygenated, or you’ll be spending possibly hundreds of dollars a month to keep it running. Not to mention, it’s rather noisy. The pump, which is the heart of the circulation system, needs to run 24/7 to ensure that debris are skimmed off the surface of the water so that they do not saturate and sink to the bottom, thereby becoming food for free-floating algae, and a clean-up nightmare for you. A circulation system in a pond is a little more costly to install up front, but a whole lot easier on the back! Remember, if you don’t have a filter, you ARE the filter.
Whereas costs differ, of course, depending on the size of the pond, an average pond using a high efficiency flow pump should cost less than $25 a month to operate, running 24/7, and take less than 10 minutes a week of your valuable time in maintenance procedures. In addition, we have no-worry water feature maintenance packages available for people who want to do a little, a little more, or not a bloody thing!
Paul and Barbi have really taken care of us from start to finish. They both made the process of buying and installing a new pond "user friendly." I wish all companies offered this kind of customer service and satisfaction! |
Brandi & Paul Burg, Scottsdale, AZ, 480-588-8539
9. What Kind of Warranty/Clear Water Guarantee Do You Provide?
This question may throw off a few folks. Most people will be happy to provide you with an appropriate warranty on the pond itself, but how about on what you’ll actually be looking at? Don’t you want to be able to see your plants and fish? You want to make sure that the contractor you’re hiring is using a construction method that promotes healthy, crystal clear water. If you wanted a bowl of pea soup, you could do that yourself! You also want to be sure that they have a follow-up service plan and will be there for you should you encounter difficulties, or just have questions.
This question may throw off a few folks. Most people will be happy to provide you with an appropriate warranty on the pond itself, but how about on what you’ll actually be looking at? Don’t you want to be able to see your plants and fish? You want to make sure that the contractor you’re hiring is using a construction method that promotes healthy, crystal clear water. If you wanted a bowl of pea soup, you could do that yourself! You also want to be sure that they have a follow-up service plan and will be there for you should you encounter difficulties, or just have questions.
Our warranty is two years, bumper-to-bumper, on the pond equipment and installation labor. We also guarantee that you will have crystal-clear water, period, once the pond is balanced, and as long as the required maintenance is performed.
The pond and stream really completes the back yard. It is very peaceful and has drawn us outside and away from the television. |
Doug Cutler, Peoria, AZ
10. What Is Your Service/ Follow-Up Plan?
How many people do you know who hire a contractor to do a job and then can never get ahold of them again? Maybe you’ve had this experience yourself once or twice. Well, that’s fine and dandy if all they’ve done is dropped a couple of plants in holes and everything is doing fine, but this is a big investment for most people. This is something that can either make or break a landscape or outdoor environment, and you want to be darn sure that the contractor you hire has a plan, and a track record, for customer service.
How many people do you know who hire a contractor to do a job and then can never get ahold of them again? Maybe you’ve had this experience yourself once or twice. Well, that’s fine and dandy if all they’ve done is dropped a couple of plants in holes and everything is doing fine, but this is a big investment for most people. This is something that can either make or break a landscape or outdoor environment, and you want to be darn sure that the contractor you hire has a plan, and a track record, for customer service.
We have weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual service plans available. We also provide “pond-sitting” services for vacation schedules and winter visitors. You can call, write, or e-mail at any time with questions, and we will be happy to help. We send out a monthly electronic newsletter to keep you informed, and Weekly Pond Tips to keep you up to speed on what you should be doing or seeing at any given time.
We also host bi-annual gatherings where you are invited to come chat with us about anything related to ponding. We host an annual free DIY cleaning clinic to show you how to do your annual maintenance yourself, if you’re so inclined. The bottom line is that once you are one of our clients, you become part of our extended family, and we keep in touch (don’t worry, we won’t expect you to host Christmas!). You can be as involved in the hobby as you want to be.
We also host bi-annual gatherings where you are invited to come chat with us about anything related to ponding. We host an annual free DIY cleaning clinic to show you how to do your annual maintenance yourself, if you’re so inclined. The bottom line is that once you are one of our clients, you become part of our extended family, and we keep in touch (don’t worry, we won’t expect you to host Christmas!). You can be as involved in the hobby as you want to be.
Had a beautiful inner courtyard large Koi Pond installed by The Pond Gnome. From the bid to the final install, everything went great. All personnel were friendly, knowledgeable, and very tidy. They installed it very quickly even with the rain. It exceeds our expectations. The waterfall and rocks that cover the equipment is gorgeous to look at and listen too. The pond, fish and plants are wonderful. We couldn't be more pleased. We would definitely recommend them to anyone wanting a beautiful and high quality pond. |
Lisa Shukla, Scottsdale, AZ, lshukla@caiaz.com, 602-692-2722
BONUS QUESTION: Can You Provide 5 References of Pond Owners Who Have Had Their Pond for Over a Year?
You want to be darn sure that the contractor you’re hiring has satisfied customers. One way to do that is to check his licensing for complaints, true, but another is to talk to actual customers. Now, you may not go through the trouble to actually call the references, but you should at least have them provided to you. Most legitimate contractors have at least a few people who would not mind receiving a call from someone for whom they have worked.
You want to be darn sure that the contractor you’re hiring has satisfied customers. One way to do that is to check his licensing for complaints, true, but another is to talk to actual customers. Now, you may not go through the trouble to actually call the references, but you should at least have them provided to you. Most legitimate contractors have at least a few people who would not mind receiving a call from someone for whom they have worked.
Yes, we can! If you are interested in having us build a pond for you, we can provide you with references upon request, or you can simply read the Testimonials on our website, some of which have contact information because they would love nothing better than to chat it up with a potential pond owner! We have a FREE 24/7/365 pond tour listed on our website – it’s a garden tour at YOUR convenience.
I have a large Koi pond and I would highly recommend you use the Pond Gnome for installation, design and maintenance. We are beyond satisfied with everything from design, installation and weekly maintenance. We were hesitant with the costs and square footage its taking up but it was the very best investment at our home! Call or message me for a reference. |
Jeff Moore, Glendale, AZ, 909-322-3476
CONTACT THE POND GNOME TODAY FOR YOUR FREE TELEPHONE CONSULTATION TO DISCUSS HOW WE CAN HELP YOU BECOME A HAPPY POND OR WATER FEATURE OWNER!
623-572-5607 * EMAIL
623-572-5607 * EMAIL
