The Dirty Tricks Some Landscape Companies in Denver Play – And How to Protect Yourself

Scam artists and shady contractors are out there, and they cost homeowners thousands of dollars every day. In Denver and across Colorado, homeowners have reported cases of unfinished jobs, skyrocketing costs, and disappearing contractors who take deposits and vanish. If you’re planning a landscape or outdoor renovation, this could save you thousands and one major headache.

The Most Common Denver Contractor Games (And How They Work Against You)

🚨 1. The Bait-and-Switch Pricing Scheme

Ever seen a quote that seems too good to be true? That’s because it probably is.

How It Works:

• A contractor gives you an unrealistically low bid to win your business.

• Once the work starts, you’re hit with “unexpected costs”—permits, material upgrades, labor fees.

• Suddenly, your budget is blown, and you’re stuck paying far more than expected.

  
  

How to Protect Yourself:

✅ Get an itemized quote—demand a breakdown of costs upfront.

✅ Ask about potential additional fees—a good contractor will be transparent.

✅ Never sign a contract without a final price clearly outlined.

🚨 2. The “Deposit Disappearing Act”

You hire a contractor, pay the deposit, and… poof! They’re gone.

How It Works:

• They collect a large upfront payment and suddenly become impossible to reach.

• They might start the project but drag it out endlessly before ghosting you.

• You’re left with an unfinished disaster and no way to get your money back.

  
  

How to Protect Yourself:

✅ Never pay more than 40% upfront—a reputable contractor will have structured payment plans.

✅ Look for a track record—check Google Reviews, BBB accreditation, and local reputation.

✅ Ask for proof of insurance and licensing—if they hesitate, it’s a red flag.

🚨 3. Cheap Materials, Hidden Costs

That high-quality stone patio you paid for? Turns out, you got cheap Home Depot pavers instead.

How It Works:

• The contractor promises premium materials but substitutes them for low-cost alternatives.

• They cut corners on construction, using poor-quality fasteners, thin base layers, or outdated methods.

• Within a year or two, cracks, sinking, or warping appear—and now repairs are on you.

  
  

How to Protect Yourself:

✅ Get a detailed materials list in your contract—right down to the brand and model.

✅ Request a mid-project inspection—see materials before installation.

✅ Hire a contractor who specializes in high-quality work—not the cheapest bidder.

🚨 4. The Never-Ending Timeline

You were told the project would take 4 weeks—but 3 months later, your yard is still a construction zone.

How It Works:

• Contractors overbook projects and juggle multiple jobs at once.

• They start your project, then disappear to another job.

• You’re left waiting indefinitely with an unfinished space.

  
  

How to Protect Yourself:

✅ Get a detailed project timeline with start and end dates.

✅ Include penalties in your contract for unreasonable delays.

✅ Hire a contractor with a dedicated team—not a one-man show juggling multiple jobs.

How These Contractor Games Hurt Homeowners Every Day

Shady contractor tactics don’t just cost money—they create stress, frustration, and sometimes even legal battles.

At Stone Peak Landscape, we’ve met too many homeowners in Denver who have been burned by these exact tactics. They come to us after losing thousands of dollars, desperate to fix mistakes made by unreliable, incapable, and unlicensed contractors.

How to Hire a Landscape Company You Can Trust in Denver

The best way to avoid these headaches and costly mistakes is to hire a contractor who is transparent, experienced, and well-reviewed.

Here’s how you can find one:

✅ Check Google Reviews & Testimonials – Look for consistently great feedback.

✅ Verify Licensing & Insurance – Don’t risk hiring someone who isn’t certified or insured.

✅ Get a Written Contract – It should outline scope, cost, timeline, and chosen materials.

✅ Look for Local Expertise – A company that understands Colorado’s climate, soil, and weather conditions will deliver better results.

Why Homeowners Trust Stone Peak Landscape

At Stone Peak Landscape, we take pride in being a trusted, transparent, and top-rated landscape company in Denver.

🏆 100% Transparent Pricing – No bait-and-switch, no hidden fees.

🏆 Licensed & Insured – Your project is protected, guaranteed.

🏆 On-Time & On-Budget Commitment – We respect your time and investment.

🏆 High-Quality Materials – No cutting corners, no cheap substitutions.

We believe in honest work, clear communication, and delivering outdoor spaces that last. Whether you're considering a deck, patio, outdoor kitchen, or full landscape renovation, we’ll make sure you get what you paid for—and then some.

Thinking About a Project? Let’s Talk.

If you’re planning a landscape or outdoor renovation in Denver, don’t fall for contractor games or risk hiring a shady landscaping company. Let’s discuss your vision, walk you through our transparent process, and help you build the outdoor space you deserve.

📅 Schedule a Free Consultation Today!👉 Click Here to Get Started