An irrigation service should explain where water goes and why each area needs it. Map the lawn, beds, slopes, and shaded areas, and note leaks or overspray. Ask whether the problem is damaged equipment, pressure, scheduling, or a design that groups incompatible planting needs together.
Evaluate Coverage Before Adding Water
EPA WaterSense recommends matching irrigation to landscape conditions and adjusting schedules through the season. Ask for a zone-by-zone assessment of distribution, leaks, pressure, and runoff. A brown patch does not automatically justify a longer schedule for the entire property. Discuss weather-based or soil-moisture controls alongside the condition of the existing system.
Compare Design and Service Scope
Specify zones, heads or drip lines, controller, valves, supply connections, trenching, restoration, and the handoff plan. Ask the qualified installer and water provider about backflow protection and applicable plumbing requirements. For repairs, list the diagnosed faults and distinguish replacement parts from redesign. Confirm whether recurring visits include controller adjustments.
- Which plants and sun exposures share each zone?
- How will the system respect local watering restrictions?
- Who documents the layout and teaches me to operate the controller?
Adapt Controls to Water Supply and Season
Ask how zones will reflect sun, shade, slope, soil, and different plant needs rather than running every area for the same duration. Confirm current watering restrictions with the water supplier and ask about required backflow protection and testing. Reclaimed water, a private well, and a public supply may raise different connection questions. In freezing climates, specify seasonal shutdown and restart responsibilities; elsewhere, discuss dry-season adjustments and rain-responsive controls. Contact 811 before trenching and identify private lines separately where needed. Request a zone map, controller instructions, and a demonstration of leak checks.
Questions Homeowners Ask
Will a smart controller fix a poorly designed system?
It can improve scheduling, but it does not automatically repair leaks, blocked heads, or unsuitable zones. Ask which physical problems need correction first.
Can I use the same schedule all season?
Water needs change with weather and planting conditions. Have the provider establish a practical adjustment method and explain how local restrictions take priority.
Sources And Local Resources
Official sources checked October 17, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the authority responsible for your property.
- U.S. EPA WaterSense: Home MaintenanceWater-using fixture and irrigation maintenance, leaks, pressure and efficient operation.
- U.S. EPA WaterSense: Watering TipsWatering suited to soil, slope and plant needs; controller and runoff considerations.
- PHMSA: Call 811 Before You Dig811 is the nationwide contact before digging; exact notification and locating rules must be confirmed for the state and project.
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