What to check in a landscaping BOQ, from measured quantities and plant sizes to exclusions, delivery charges and the maintenance scope.
Two landscaping quotations can have the same total and describe very different gardens. One may include soil preparation, mature plants and maintenance; the other may cover only supply and planting. A bill of quantities, or BOQ, makes those differences visible before work starts.
Start with the same drawing
Ask every contractor to price the same layout and revision. Mark the lawn, planting beds, paths, water features and structures on that drawing. If one estimate uses an older plan, the totals are not directly comparable. Keep optional work separate so a pergola or fountain does not hide the cost of the basic garden.
Use measured dimensions rather than the property's advertised size. A one-kanal house does not have one kanal available for landscaping. Covered areas, parking, setbacks and existing paving all affect the quantity of work. State the measurement units on every BOQ line, especially when drawings and suppliers use different units.
Look beyond the plant name
- Planting: specify species, quantity, supplied size and whether transport and planting are included.
- Soil: identify the material, intended depth, quantity and preparation work.
- Paving: include base preparation, finish, edging and joint treatment.
- Irrigation: list pipes, valves, controls, pumps and installation work separately.
- Lighting and water features: distinguish fittings from wiring, plumbing and commissioning.
Check the costs between the headings
Ask who pays for delivery, unloading, debris removal, temporary storage and access equipment. These can matter on a finished residential street as much as on a factory site. An allowance for an item that has not yet been selected should be clearly labelled, with a process for approving the final amount.
Have the contractor state whether rates include applicable taxes and how long the quotation remains valid. Prices for materials and equipment change, so a written validity period is more useful than a copied online price range. Record any substitution before it is purchased, including its effect on appearance, maintenance and cost.
Include handover and aftercare
A BOQ should make it clear whether initial watering, plant establishment visits, system demonstrations and ongoing maintenance are included. These are different activities. A finished garden still needs someone responsible for it immediately after the installation team leaves.
GardenPlus prepares detailed BOQs for landscaping projects. Its Landscape Design & Planning service includes a one-year service warranty/guarantee. Ask for the written coverage with your quotation, including how to report an issue and which maintenance responsibilities remain with the property owner. Keep the approved drawing, BOQ and any changes together so everyone works from the same agreement.
