A hard landscaper is a skilled contractor who constructs the structural and hard surface elements of a garden - patios, paths, walls, steps, fencing, driveways and decking. Hard landscapers work from garden designer drawings or directly from a client brief. The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) is the main trade body, and APL membership combined with a CSCS card is a reliable indicator of professionalism on larger projects.
What they do
- Lay natural stone, porcelain, block paving and concrete patios
- Install block paving, tarmac and resin-bound driveways
- Build garden walls in brick, stone and blockwork
- Construct retaining walls and raised beds
- Erect fencing and timber boundary structures
- Build timber and composite decking
- Construct garden steps and changes in level
- Install drainage and groundworks for landscaping
When you need one
Any project involving the construction of hard surfaces or structures in your garden will require a hard landscaper.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Natural stone patio (supply and lay, per sq m) | £100 - £200 / m² |
| Block paving driveway (supply and lay, per sq m) | £80 - £150 / m² |
| Garden wall - brickwork (per metre run) | £150 - £400 / m |
| Timber decking (supply and lay, per sq m) | £100 - £200 / m² |
| Boundary fence (supply and fit, per metre run) | £50 - £150 / m |
| Raised bed (supply and build) | £300 - £800 / bed |
| Hourly rate | £35 - £60 / hr |
Material costs are often the larger component of a landscaping quote - natural stone, porcelain and hardwood are significantly more expensive than budget alternatives. Always confirm whether the quote includes material supply and disposal of excavated material.
Qualifications to look for
APL membership requires contractors to demonstrate insurance, qualifications and professional standards. Full APL membership is a reliable quality indicator. Search at apl.org.uk or via the BALI find-a-contractor tool.
A CSCS card confirms that the holder has achieved a relevant health and safety qualification and the appropriate trade qualification for their role. Expected on larger commercial and residential projects.
How to find a reputable hard landscaper
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for a garden wall?
A wall over 1m high on or near a highway, or over 2m high elsewhere, requires planning permission. Lower walls are generally permitted development but always check with your local authority if the property is in a conservation area or is listed - additional restrictions apply in those circumstances.
What is the difference between a hard landscaper and a builder?
A hard landscaper specialises in external garden construction - patios, paths, driveways, walls, fencing and drainage. A builder focuses on building structures. There is overlap for retaining walls and similar features - choose based on the contractor's specific experience with the type of work you need.
How long does a patio take to lay?
A typical 30-40 sq m patio on prepared ground takes 3-5 days to lay in natural stone or porcelain including base preparation. Larger or more complex schemes with drainage, levels or intricate patterns will take longer.