Rates Policy

At Kowski Construction, we believe in transparent, fair pricing. This Rates Policy outlines our pricing structure, what is included in our quotes, and the main factors that affect project costs. Every project is unique, and final pricing is provided after a free consultation and site assessment.

1. Pricing Philosophy

Our pricing is based on:

• Fair market rates: Competitive with Calgary landscaping industry standards.
• Quality materials: We use premium materials tested for Alberta’s climate.
• Skilled labor: Experienced, trained professionals complete your project.
• Comprehensive service: From consultation to completion and warranty coverage.
• Transparent breakdown: Detailed quotes showing labor, materials and other costs.

2. Service Pricing Ranges

The following are approximate price ranges for common services in the Calgary area. Actual costs vary based on project specifics, site conditions and material selections.

2.1 Hardscape Services

2.2 Softscape Services

2.3 Excavation & Grading Services

3. What's Included in Our Quotes

All Kowski Construction quotes include:

• Free consultation: Initial site visit and assessment
• Detailed breakdown: Labor, materials, equipment, and other costs itemized
• Material specifications: Brands, types, colors of materials proposed
• Project timeline: Estimated start and completion dates
• Permit costs: If applicable for your project
• Cleanup: Daily cleanup and final site restoration
• Warranty: 1-year workmanship warranty
• Insurance: Liability and workers' compensation coverage

4. Factors Affecting Project Cost

Several factors influence the final cost of your landscaping project:

4.1 Site Conditions

• Access: Difficult access increases labor time and equipment needs
• Soil quality: Rocky, clay, or poor soil requires more preparation
• Slope: Steep slopes require additional engineering and labor
• Existing features: Removal of old landscaping adds cost
• Underground obstacles: Tree roots, utilities, old foundations

4.2 Material Selection

• Standard materials: Concrete pavers, basic mulch (base pricing)
• Mid-range materials: Natural stone pavers, premium sod (15-30% increase)
• Premium materials: Natural flagstone, designer pavers (40-80% increase)
• Imported/specialty materials: Can significantly increase costs

4.3 Project Complexity

• Simple designs: Straight lines, basic patterns (base pricing)
• Moderate complexity: Curves, multi-level (10-20% increase)
• Complex designs: Intricate patterns, custom features (25-50% increase)
• Engineering requirements: High walls, structural elements (additional costs)

4.4 Project Size

• Small projects: Higher per-unit cost due to mobilization and minimum fees
• Medium projects: Best value per square foot
• Large projects: May qualify for volume discounts on materials

4.5 Seasonal Timing

• Peak season (May-August): Standard pricing, high demand
• Shoulder season (April, September-October): Best availability
• Off-season booking (November-March): 10-15% discount for spring projects

5. Additional Fees and Charges

5.1 Travel Fees

• Within Calgary city limits: No travel fee
• Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Chestermere: No travel fee
• 50-75km from Calgary: $100 travel fee per visit
• 75km+ from Calgary: Custom quote, travel fee applies

5.2 Rush Service

Need your project completed quickly?

• Standard booking (4+ weeks notice): No premium
• Priority booking (2-3 weeks notice): 10% premium
• Rush booking (under 2 weeks): 20% premium (subject to availability)

5.3 Weekend/After Hours Work

• Regular hours (Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm): Standard rates
• Sunday work: 25% premium (by special arrangement only)
• After hours (6pm-8pm): 15% premium

5.4 Change Orders

Changes to project scope after work begins:

• Minor changes: Quoted at standard rates
• Major changes: May incur 10-15% administrative fee plus material/labor costs
• Work stoppage due to changes: Minimum half-day charge ($500)

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Standard Payment Structure

• Deposit: 30-50% upon contract signing
• Progress payment: 25-40% at project midpoint or material delivery
• Final payment: Remaining balance upon completion and your approval

6.2 Payment Methods Accepted

• Credit/Debit Cards: 2.5% processing fee applies
• E-transfer: No fee (preferred method)
• Company Cheque: No fee
• Cash: No fee

6.3 Payment Terms

• Deposits due within 48 hours of contract signing to secure booking
• Progress payments due upon completion of milestone or material delivery
• Final payment due immediately upon project approval
• Late payment (14+ days overdue): 2% monthly interest charge

7. Discounts and Promotions

7.1 Multi-Service Discounts

Save when you bundle services:

• 2 services: 5% off total project
• 3+ services: 10% off total project
• Example: Book paver patio + sod installation + irrigation system = 10% savings

7.2 Referral Program

• Refer a friend who books a project: $250 credit on your next project
• Your referred friend receives: 5% discount on their first project
• No limit on referrals - earn unlimited credits!

7.3 Seasonal Promotions

Watch for special offers:

• Early bird special (February-March): 10-15% off spring bookings
• Fall savings (September-October): Discounts on select services
• Holiday promotions: Special offers throughout the year

7.4 Senior & Military Discounts

• Seniors (65+): 5% discount on all services
• Active military/veterans: 5% discount on all services
• Valid ID required; cannot be combined with other discounts

8. Price Guarantees

8.1 Quote Validity

• Written quotes valid for 30 days from issue date
• Material price fluctuations beyond our control may require quote adjustment after 30 days
• Labor rates guaranteed for 60 days

8.2 No Hidden Fees

We guarantee:

• All costs disclosed upfront in written quote
• No surprise charges or hidden fees
• Any additional work requires your written approval with updated pricing
• Transparent itemized invoicing

8.3 Competitive Pricing

If you receive a lower quote from a licensed and insured competitor for identical scope and materials, we'll match or beat it by 5% (conditions apply).

9. Financing Options

We understand landscaping is a significant investment. While we don't offer in-house financing, we can recommend:

• Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
• Home improvement loans through major banks
• Credit card payment plans
• Seasonal payment arrangements (case-by-case basis)

10. Price Matching Policy

We're confident our pricing offers excellent value. Our price match guarantee:

• Must be a written quote from a licensed, insured Calgary landscaper
• Must be for identical scope, materials, and specifications
• Quote must be dated within 30 days
• We'll match the price and provide 5% additional discount
• Present competitor quote before work begins

11. Warranty and Service Costs

• Warranty work: Free during warranty period (1 year workmanship)
• Post-warranty service call: $95 trip charge + labor/materials
• Annual maintenance programs: Custom quotes available
• Emergency service (outside business hours): $150 minimum + time and materials

12. How to Get an Accurate Quote

To ensure you receive the most accurate pricing for your project:

1. Provide detailed information: Project scope, dimensions, preferred materials
2. Share inspiration photos: Help us understand your vision
3. Schedule an on-site consultation: Allows us to assess actual conditions
4. Discuss your budget: We can suggest options to fit your budget
5. Ask questions: Clarify anything you're unsure about
6. Review the quote carefully: Ensure it matches your expectations

13. Value-Added Services (Included at No Extra Cost)

When you choose Kowski Construction, these services are always included:

• Free initial consultation and site assessment
• Professional design recommendations
• Detailed project planning
• Daily site cleanup
• Complete final cleanup and site restoration
• Project photos (before/during/after)
• Care and maintenance instructions
• 1-year workmanship warranty
• Post-project follow-up

14. Why Our Rates Reflect Quality

You might find cheaper quotes elsewhere, but here's what sets us apart:

• Licensed & Insured: Full liability and workers' comp coverage protects you
• Experienced Team: 10+ years serving Calgary, trained professionals
• Quality Materials: We use premium materials tested for Alberta's climate
• Proper Techniques: Correct base preparation, drainage, installation methods
• Warranty Backed: We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties
• Family-Owned: Your satisfaction is personal to us
• Transparent Process: Clear communication from quote to completion

15. Tax Information

• All prices subject to 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• GST registration number provided on all quotes and invoices
• Detailed invoices suitable for tax records
• Some landscaping improvements may qualify for home renovation tax credits - consult your accountant

16. Changes to Pricing

Kowski Construction reserves the right to adjust pricing based on:

• Material cost fluctuations
• Changes in fuel or transportation costs
• Updates to labor rates (reviewed annually)
• Changes in regulations or permit fees

Any pricing changes apply to new projects only. Signed contracts honor the quoted pricing regardless of subsequent rate changes.

17. Request a Detailed Quote

Ready to get started? Here's how to request your free, no-obligation quote:

1. Online: Fill out our quote request form
2. Phone: Call us at (403) 831-1563
3. Email: Send project details to hello@kowskiconstruction.ca

We'll respond within 24 business hours to schedule your free consultation.

18. Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer payment plans?

We accept payment in installments (deposit, progress payment, final payment). For longer-term financing, we recommend speaking with your bank about home improvement loans or HELOCs.

Can I supply my own materials?

Generally, we prefer to source materials to ensure quality and warranty coverage. However, we can discuss this on a case-by-case basis. Client-supplied materials are not covered under our warranty.

Do you price match?

Yes! We offer a price match guarantee for identical scope and materials from licensed, insured competitors. See Section 10 for details.

How accurate are your estimates?

Our quotes are detailed estimates based on site assessment. Final pricing may vary by 5-10% if unforeseen conditions are discovered. We always discuss changes with you before proceeding.

What's not included in your quotes?

Unless specifically mentioned, quotes don't include: furniture/decor, outdoor lighting fixtures, irrigation system hookups to existing plumbing (plumber required), electrical work (electrician required), or changes to existing structures.

Do you have a minimum project size?

Yes, minimum project fees apply for small jobs to cover mobilization costs. Minimums range from $1,000-$3,000 depending on service type (see pricing tables above).

19. Contact Us About Pricing

Have questions about our rates or need clarification on a quote? We're here to help!

Kowski Construction
Phone: (403) 831-1563
Email: hello@kowskiconstruction.ca
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Service Area: Calgary, AB and surrounding areas