[mstiles]

I have a new client(they haven't yet signed contract) who intends to install a massive landscape without an irrigation system. They are building a "green house" and apparently irrigation will count against their LEED point system. They have no gutters so a cistern is not practical. My concern is that they seem uninterested in paying me to water it, as they say they can take care of it. Anyone who has dragged hoses to water a new lawn, plantings, and 3000 sq of blueberry sod would tell you that it is a full time job, but the husband and wife are both full time professionals. Would you void their plant guarantee or would you just strongly advise them that any plants that die from lack of watering are not covered under your guarantee?

[sandim]

A. Can you encourage them to install soaker hoses? It's still a big job though.
B. Depending on what they are looking for, I would try to suggest plants that would work with xeriscaping.
C. If they don't have an automatic irrigation system and will not pay you to water, I would let them know their guarantee will be voided if any plant dies due to what you determine to be owner neglect.

[jshilan]

Can't you offer them an install price without any guarantee or warranty on the plant material? It will save them a few dollars and gets you off of the hook.

You can also have them sign a waiver that you recommended that they install an irrigation system but they have chosen to go against your professional advice.

Either way you should get something in writing that protects you. Even if they didn't work full time, the plants would not get watered properly without an irrigation system, and even that is no guarantee.

Don't lose the work, but let them sign off on it.

Thanks!

Jody

"Make your home, your vacation home"

[Daniel Hanson]

Here is what you do. Tell them that they need to install an irrigation system, then sell them on a smart controller. WeatherTRAK Irrigation Systems and Smart ET Controllers from HydroPoint I am a huge advocate of smart controllers. Especially the Hydropoint controllers. They can save up to 50% of the water that you would use with a typical irrigation controller. It isn't the 100% answer to your question but it may be a great compromise. ALSO... you may want to check out the possibility of using Netafim Tech Line or Rain Bird Landscape Drip Line to water the turf from below. I know that this is an up and coming trend and is already being used all over the country. Just a suggestion!

[sandim]

Originally Posted by jshilan

You can also have them sign a waiver that you recommended that they install an irrigation system but they have chosen to go against your professional advice.

Excellent advice!

It sounds like if you can't convince them on some type of irrigation system you need to have them sign a waiver like Jody mentioned, and also have them sign something that indicates they understand if the plants die due to lack of water, they are not guaranteed.

[GLAN]

Flat out..........no irrigation............no guarantee

For those that have someone home all the time........I will consider a reduced time guarantee