Selecting an Irrigation Contractor

Rely on the Expertise of A Professional …..

To ensure the highest-quality installation and optimum operation of your sprinkler system, you should carefully select the installing contractor. A licensed professional irrigator is an expert on hydraulics and proper sprinkler layout. Denver Sprinkler and Landscape, Inc is one such company. We are well-versed in the latest equipment and installation techniques that will ensure a water-efficient system and years of trouble-free operation.

Questions to Ask a Contractor When Considering or Comparing Bids:

Whether you’re interested in an irrigation system for a residential or commercial project, this section offers guidelines on important questions to ask contractors. If you ask these questions of each bidder, you will be able to more accurately compare proposals.

Contractor Licenses – Is the contractor licensed by the State of Colorado? You should ask for the contractor’s license number. It should also be posted on his vehicle, proposal, plan or contract.

System Warranty – What is the length of any warranty offered on the system? Does the warranty include repair parts as well as labor for the full period? Does the warranty cover a percentage of the repair costs, or is it pro-rated (you pay part of the repair costs in the later years of the warranty)? Are there specific manufacturer warranties on system components that extend beyond the contractor’s warranty terms?

After-Sale Service – Will the contractor service the system after the warranty has expired? What other types of service can the contractor provide? Is an extended warranty available and is a service contract offered? Are they something you should consider?

System Maintenance – What types of routine services will be necessary? When should they be performed? Can the contractor train you to perform some maintenance tasks?

Backflow Prevention Equipment – What type of backflow prevention device is being used on the system? (Be sure that local ordinances are being observed. Septic systems and chemical injection systems require high hazard devices.) Click here for more information on backflow prevention equipment.

You may want to contact your water purveyor to answer these backflow prevention questions: Will the backflow device be tested and certified on completion? Can the Contractor provide re-certification as local authorities may require?

Required Permits – Will the contractor provide and secure all necessary permits, inspections, and certifications required by local authorities and the State of Colorado? (Ask for proof of all required documents upon the completion of the project.) You may need to contact your local water purveyor to provide details of necessary permits and certifications.

Insurance – Does the contractor have liability insurance? What is your liability if damage occurs to underground utilities in your property or if a contractor’s employee is injured on your property?

Sub-Contractors – Will any sub-contractors be used in completing the project? Will this sub-contractors employees be covered by the contractor’s insurance and be under his supervision?

Professionalism – Membership in local trade organizations indicates an active participation in the industry. It shows a professional attitude that can be reflected in the Contractor’s work. Trade association members keep up with the latest technology and changes in laws and regulations. Is the Contractor a member of the Austin Lawn Sprinkler Association, or any other state or national professional organization? If not, why?

Details of the Sprinkler System – You should also review the following specific information on the system and equipment being proposed for your property.

• What brand of equipment is being used for each of the system components? Why is this equipment recommended over another brand?
• How many sprinkler heads and zones are being recommended? Does the contractor guarantee 100% coverage of the irrigated area, and for how long after the job is completed?
• Are grass, shrub and ground cover areas being watered separately? If not, why?
• What type of controller is being used? Does it offer multiple programs? Can you understand how to program it? Is it easy to review the program once it has been installed? Will it be installed in a location that is easily accessible?
• How deep will the pipes and control wires be installed? (You should consider normal lawn maintenance practices, such as aeration, and potential for freezing in your determination of how deep lines should be.)
• Are the electric control wires to the valves made for direct burial? How are electrical connections that are in the ground protected? (Poor electrical connections are a common trouble spot. They can corrode or short, causing valves to fail. Waterproof connectors, that are made for direct burial, are always required for proper operation.)

Denver Sprinkler and Landscape, Inc has the sprinkler system experience and expertise with the installation, repair and maintenance of all types of sprinkler systems. Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation and quote.

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