Werbrich’s Complete Client Process

While every project is different, the way we approach and execute each project is very similar. It is this consistency that enables us to install some of the most unique and exciting outdoor spaces in the Tri-State for our customers, who typically become lifelong members of the Werbrich’s family after trusting us with their first project. Here is a look at our process:

CONCEPTUALIZATION

You may not quite realize it yet, but you have already taken the first step by beginning to envision how your new outdoor space might look and function. We encourage you to take notes and save images you like as you dream about your new space. Your notes and saved images will be invaluable to your Werbrich’s designer as they work with you to tailor your new outdoor space to you and the way you live. Consider browsing the completed project portfolio on our website or looking at our projects on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz) for more inspiration!

PHONE CONSULTATION

When you are ready to take the next step, call us or fill out an online consultation form to schedule a phone consultation with one of our seasoned designers. We begin with this step, so you can begin to learn who your designer is and how we work before he or she comes out to your home. This initial phone call also gives the designer a preliminary understanding of your project wish list so that they can be as prepared as possible for the upcoming consultation.

ONSITE CONSULTATION

During the onsite consultation, your designer will walk your property with you, listen to your wish list in greater detail, and offer some ideas of his or her own. Your designer will likely be able to provide a preliminary idea of construction costs right there on the spot. The onsite consultation will conclude with a kitchen table review of the design scope (your wish list), a summary of your designer’s initial thoughts on project costs, and a discussion of next steps. The designer will then quote the design fee associated with your project’s design.

DESIGN PROCESS

We believe the preparation of a detailed design is incredibly important for your project. This comprehensive design gives you, the customer, a very clear idea of the product you’re paying for before you sign any construction proposals. Additionally, well-prepared designs prevent unforeseen surprises and significant additional costs during construction to the greatest extent possible. We attempt to identify pitfalls and solve problems before we break ground. Additional costs like these usually manifest themselves as expensive change orders. Our design approach avoids change orders through careful planning. Perhaps most importantly, the detailed designs that we prepare serve as excellent sets of instructions for our production division as they build your dream.

We charge a design fee for every project. Once you approve the design fee agreement, we begin the design process by gathering all site measurements, elevations, photos, and other data pertinent to your project. Following this initial site analysis, we begin the collaborative design process with you that may include multiple options, revisions, and meetings, depending on the complexity of your project. This process culminates in a comprehensive custom design and detailed project estimate.

DESIGN PRESENTATION

When your design is complete, your designer will schedule an in-person or online meeting to present your design and estimate, as well as a tentative start date and work schedule. At this point, it is possible that your designer needs to make additional revisions. These revisions are covered by the design fee that your designer quoted at the beginning of the process. When all revisions have been completed to your satisfaction and you’re ready to move forward, you will have the opportunity to be added to our schedule by signing a formal proposal prepared by your designer and paying the scheduling deposit.

PREPARATION FOR CONSTRUCTION

When we receive your signature and deposit, our work has only just begun. At this point, your project will shift into a “job setup” phase that consists of finalizing materials selections, ordering materials, preparing detailed construction drawings and job notes, applying for permits and HOA approval if necessary, and other important steps to ensure that the construction of your project goes as smoothly as possible. We value preparation. During this preparatory phase, our operations manager will keep you informed of your anticipated start date, including any schedule changes that may result from poor weather (or good weather!) and other factors outside our control.

CONSTRUCTION

The construction phase begins with a preconstruction meeting during which you, your designer, your assigned Werbrich’s project manager, and any other key personnel meet onsite to discuss project schedule, logistics, and all other construction-related matters in detail. Following this meeting, your assigned project manager and foreman will become your primary points of contact until the project is completed. Your designer, however, will remain available to discuss design-related matters, additional enhancements that you may want, billing, and anything else you would like to discuss. Your project manager will be your go-to person for all construction-related matters and will ensure the completion of all proposed work to your satisfaction.

Your project area will be kept as neat and orderly as possible and will be straightened up at the end of each day of work. It will also receive extensive cleaning at project completion. When the project is nearing the finish line, your assigned project manager and designer will conduct a thorough final walkthrough with you to ensure that all work has been completed in a manner that exceeds your expectations. If it hasn’t, Werbrich’s will prepare a punch list and make all necessary corrections as soon as possible so that you can begin enjoying your new outdoor space!

FOLLOW-UP

During the final walkthrough, your designer and project manager will offer to have an experienced member of our Landscape Maintenance Division contact you to discuss the landscape maintenance services we offer and, if desired, provide a free maintenance walkthrough to discuss how you (or we) will take care of your landscaping, lighting, and other outdoor features. Furthermore, your designer and project manager will remain available if you ever have any concerns about the space we installed for you or if you become interested in additional outdoor improvements of any kind.