Licensed, bonded and insured are three words every homeowner should look for before hiring a landscape contractor. Details Landscape Art has proudly served Sonoma and Napa Counties for more than thirty years.
Details Landscape Art is a landscape contractor. Details Landscape Art is not a landscape architect. Homeowners are often confused by the difference. Both professions play important roles, but their licenses and responsibilities are different.
The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is the regulatory agency responsible for licensing contractors in California.
Landscape Contractor vs. Landscape Architect
The California Code of Regulations defines a C-27 Landscape Contractor as one who constructs, maintains, repairs, installs, or subcontracts the development of landscape systems and facilities for public and private gardens and other areas that aesthetically, horticulturally, or functionally improve the land surrounding a structure.
A landscape architect performs site analysis, land planning, grading, storm water management, sustainable design, construction specifications, and ensures that plans comply with applicable codes and ordinances. Landscape architects must pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) and meet separate licensing requirements.
Basically, the landscape architect is licensed to draw plans, but not install landscape projects. The landscape contractor is licensed to install landscape projects.
The contractor, however, is permitted to draw a design if the design is part of a design-build project. This is why we at Details Landscape Art refer to ourselves as a design-build contractor. We cannot draw designs and sell them separately, but we regularly prepare sketches and designs in preparation for an installation project.
Becoming a Licensed Landscape Contractor
To become licensed as a landscape contractor in California, a two-part examination must be passed:
- Law and Business
- Trade
In addition, four years of journeyman-level experience are required.
But obtaining a contractor’s license is only part of the process.
Why Licensed, Bonded and Insured Matters
California requires contractors to maintain a contractor’s bond to help protect consumers from defective construction or other license law violations.
Contractors must also carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance when employees are present.
These requirements help protect both homeowners and workers in the event of accidents, damage, or disputes.
When hiring a contractor, homeowners should always verify that the contractor’s license is active and in good standing.
Licensed, Bonded and Insured – Peace of Mind for Homeowners
Landscape projects can represent a significant investment. Hiring a licensed, bonded and insured contractor provides peace of mind that the company has met California’s licensing requirements and carries the protections required by law.
Details Landscape Art is proud to be a licensed, bonded and insured landscape contractor serving Sonoma and Napa Counties for more than thirty years.