Website: These days you would think everyone has a website. That is not true when it comes to SOD contractors. If they have a good informative website that is a great sign. Good pictures and video is a must. You can almost tell how much that company spent on developing the site. I think it will reflect their work.
Prices: You should see prices on the website. Too many contractors are afraid of displaying their rates because of the competition. If the company does have pricing available, that is a good sign. They are basically showing confidence in their work.
Reviews: If a company’s reviews are hard to find, that may be an issue. It’s 2020 and people do reviews everywhere. Of Course not all reviews are real, but you can really tell if they are fake or not. They should be easily accessible.
Referrals: When looking to get your lawn replaced with SOD, it’s a good idea to get some customer referrals. There shouldn’t be a problem with this. Some companies will say, “they don’t do that”. If you hear those words, run!
Sales Process: When you contact the company, they should be able to ask you a series of questions to better understand “why” you need SOD in your lawn. They should be able to explain the different types of sod, how it is planted, what SOD is best for your lawn, discuss shade, possible lawn issues, and especially a good ballpark cost.
Payments: If you hear the words, “We only do cash” hang up the phone. The company you are dealing with should have several forms of accepting payment. For example: Cash, Check, Credit Card, Zelle, Cash App, Square, Venmo and more.
Invoices: The company should have the ability to send emails, texts, PDF files, mobile phone invoices with signatures, and even a hard copy.
Detailed Install Process: A SOD company should explain in detail how they install SOD. SOD is a produce product and should be planted properly. There are about 32 steps in installing SOD.
Sprinklers: SOD companies should have the ability to repair and install sprinkler heads, valves, rotors. They should have a good knowledge base of how a sprinkler system works. Sprinklers are a vital part of growing a good lawn, especially new SOD.
