A new patio can completely change the way your garden looks and feels. Whether you’re imagining summer BBQs, cosy evenings outdoors, or a stylish space to entertain, the right patio makes all the difference. But here’s the catch: it only turns out beautifully if you choose the right people to build it.
In a city as busy and diverse as London, finding trustworthy landscape patio contractors can feel like finding a needle in a stack of quotes. With so many companies offering garden makeovers, how do you know who’s genuinely skilled and who’s just good at advertising?
Here’s a down-to-earth guide to help you choose wisely.
1. Look for Contractors With Real London Experience
London gardens aren’t like suburban ones. Space can be tight, access can be tricky, and many older homes come with uneven ground, ageing drainage, or awkward layouts. You want contractors who understand all of that.
A good contractor knows:
- How to work with limited access
- How London clay behaves beneath paving
- Which local planning restrictions may apply
- How to design patios that feel spacious even in smaller gardens
As contractors often say, “Every London garden has its own personality. Build around it, not over it.”
2. Check Reviews, Photos and Real Customer Feedback
The best way to judge a contractor is to see what their customers say about them.
Look for:
- Google reviews
- Trustpilot ratings
- Checkatrade profiles
- Social media photos
- Before-and-after examples
- Projects completed in your area
If a company has dozens of good reviews and consistent praise for reliability and workmanship, you’re on the right track. If you notice repeating complaints… that’s your sign to keep looking.
3. Ask About Their Design Process
A patio isn’t just about laying slabs. It’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle, your taste, and your garden.
Good landscape patio contractors should help you visualise the final result before a single stone is laid.
They should discuss:
- Patio size and shape
- Material options like porcelain, sandstone, limestone or concrete
- How you use your garden
- Lighting ideas
- Steps, levels or retaining walls
- Planting and edging options
A great contractor listens first, designs second.
4. Get a Proper Written Quote, Not a Handshake Price
A reliable contractor always gives a detailed written quote. No vague promises, no “don’t worry, we’ll sort it”, and definitely no cash-only offers.
Your quote should include:
- Material costs
- Labour
- Excavation and waste removal
- Sub-base preparation
- Pointing or jointing
- Drainage work
- Any extra features like seating or borders
If a quote seems too cheap, there’s usually a reason.
As the saying goes, “Buy cheap, pay twice.”
5. Make Sure They Prioritise Proper Groundwork
A patio will only last as long as its foundations.
In London especially, the ground needs careful preparation to stop sinking, shifting or cracking.
Good groundwork includes:
- Digging to the correct depth
- Laying and compacting MOT Type 1 sub-base
- Screening sharp sand if needed
- Levelling properly
- Ensuring strong edges and restraints
If a contractor skips or rushes this part, the patio won’t last.
6. Check if They Handle Drainage Correctly
London rainfall is unpredictable, and without proper drainage, even the prettiest patio can turn into a puddle.
Your contractor should consider:
- Falls and gradients
- Channel drains
- Permeable paving options
- How water will flow away from the house
- Whether soakaways are needed
Good drainage equals long-term durability.
7. Ask About Their Materials and Suppliers
Quality materials matter. Cheap slabs often fade, crack or warp quickly.
Your contractor should be able to tell you:
- Which paving brands they use
- How long the materials last
- What warranties come with them
- Whether they’re frost-resistant
- Which slabs suit London’s climate
A contractor who uses reliable suppliers is usually a contractor you can trust.
8. Communication Matters More Than You Think
A great contractor keeps you in the loop. They explain timelines, update you throughout the build, and answer questions honestly.
Signs of a reliable team:
- They turn up when they say they will
- They reply quickly
- They keep things tidy
- They discuss changes before they happen
- They treat your property with respect
A patio project is a partnership. Good communication makes it smoother and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right patio contractor in London isn’t just about price. It’s about skill, reliability, experience and trust. When you find landscape patio contractors who take the time to understand your space, prioritise proper groundwork, and communicate clearly, you end up with a patio that looks stunning and lasts for years.
As many landscapers say, “A patio isn’t just built. It’s crafted.”
Find the right team, and your garden will finally feel like the outdoor space you’ve always imagined.