Original research
Questions to ask an irrigation company before you sign
Thirteen questions about design, backflow, zoning and service, with the answer that signals a sound system.
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Written by HyreYard Research Desk Research and fact checking
The short answer
The most useful questions to ask an irrigation company are about design: will they walk the property before quoting, how will they zone it by plant type and sun, what backflow device protects your drinking water, and will you get a drawing of the system.
A sprinkler quote without a site visit and a zone plan is a guess.
Backflow is the question homeowners miss. Many local codes require a backflow preventer on residential irrigation; Florida’s building code has required one since 1990, according to UF/IFAS, and Medford, Oregon’s water utility says one is always required.
The right device depends on site conditions such as heads above the device, so your local water provider’s rule decides it.
The U.S. EPA’s WaterSense program certifies irrigation designers, installers and auditors, and lists them in a directory. Kansas State Research and Extension advises getting two or three estimates from well-regarded companies. See our irrigation service page to get connected.
Questions to ask an irrigation company, with answers
| Question | Listen for | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Will you visit before quoting? | Yes; they measure, check pressure and walk slopes | Quote from satellite images |
| 2. How will you zone the system? | Separate zones for lawn, beds, sun and shade | One zone type for everything |
| 3. Will heads reach head to head? | Spacing so each head reaches the next | Spacing to save heads |
| 4. Drip or spray for beds? | Drip for beds and containers | Spray heads over beds by default |
| 5. What backflow device, and is it tested? | Named device per local code; who arranges testing | “Not needed” |
| 6. Who pulls permits? | Named in the contract | Unclear |
| 7. What controller? | Model, and whether it adjusts for weather | Not specified |
| 8. Are you WaterSense certified? | Yes, or another relevant certification | No answer either way |
| 9. Do you know local watering rules? | Names the day/time restrictions | Unaware |
| 10. Will I get a drawing? | As-built map of zones, valves, lines | No drawing |
| 11. How is it winterised (cold climates)? | Method and whether it is offered as a service | Not addressed |
| 12. What does the warranty cover? | Parts and workmanship terms in writing | Verbal |
| 13. Licence and insurance? | Licence where the state requires one; certificate of insurance | No paperwork |
Irrigation questions that need more explanation
Backflow prevention
Backflow prevention keeps lawn water, which can carry fertiliser, from being drawn back into household supply.
An Indiana utility notes a reduced-pressure assembly is needed where heads sit above the device or a booster pump is used, and a pressure vacuum breaker may do otherwise. Your water provider sets the rule and often requires periodic testing.
Zoning and coverage
Zoning is where good and bad systems split. Lawn and beds need different amounts of water, and sunny areas dry faster than shade. Beds and containers usually suit drip irrigation. Use the sprinkler runtime calculator once you know the zones.
Controllers
Controllers range from simple timers to weather-adjusting models. See smart irrigation controller. Ask whether it fits your local watering days; our watering restrictions tracker covers many areas.
Certification
WaterSense-certified professionals have passed an exam covering general irrigation and water efficiency (EPA WaterSense). It is not a licence, but it is a checkable credential.
Before trenching starts
Trenching for lines is digging. 811 is free and routes to your state centre (PEMC).
Ask how trenches will avoid the critical root zone of mature trees.
How trench lines are restored, and who reseeds or patches.
Some utilities rebate efficient controllers or conversions; approval may be needed first.
You cannot tell how the water will be distributed.
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Questions
Do I need a backflow preventer on my sprinkler system?
How many irrigation quotes should I get?
What is a WaterSense certified irrigation professional?
Should beds have drip or spray irrigation?
What should an irrigation quote include?
Should I ask about maintenance plans?
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