5 Common Gardener and Landscaper Problems and When to Call a Professional

The problems that come up most

These are the jobs gardeners and landscapers are most commonly booked for. Catching them early almost always costs less:

• a lawn that won't thrive despite feeding
• poor drainage leaving the garden waterlogged
• overgrown hedges and boundaries
• a patio that has sunk or moved
• weeds returning through new membranes

What you can safely check yourself

Before calling anyone, gather information: when the problem started, whether it's getting worse, and clear photos. This helps a professional give you a realistic first assessment and helps you describe the job accurately when collecting quotes.

Basic observation is always safe; DIY repair is not always. If the problem involves gas, electrics, working at height or the structure of your home, stop at observation and call a professional.

Signs it's time to book someone

Book a professional when the problem is getting worse, when it involves safety, when your own attempts haven't held, or when you simply don't know the cause. A correct diagnosis is usually cheaper than a wrong repair.

For context on cost: Garden maintenance typically costs £20–£40 per hour. Landscaping projects are usually quoted as a whole: a new patio runs £80–£120 per square metre including materials.

Choosing who to call

Landscaping is unlicensed. For tree work see our tree surgeon guide; for general landscaping, check reviews and ask for a portfolio of completed projects similar to yours.

Check recent reviews before booking — Hammerscore company pages for gardeners and landscapers combine ratings from several platforms, and the low-star reviews tell you most about how problems were handled.