Direct Answer
To hire a reliable landscape design & installation contractor in Charleston: (1) Get 3 written quotes with line-item breakdowns, (2) Verify WV license at West Virginia Division of Labor (labor.wv.gov), (3) Confirm active general liability and workers' comp insurance, (4) Check Google and BBB reviews specific to Charleston projects, (5) Never pay more than 10-30% upfront — never pay in full before completion.
Full Explanation
Red flags specific to Charleston contractors: no physical Charleston-area address, pressure to start immediately, cash-only payment demands, and license numbers that don't verify at West Virginia Division of Labor (labor.wv.gov). Seasonal demand during summer brings out less reputable contractors.
Local Factors in Charleston
📍Verify license: West Virginia Division of Labor (labor.wv.gov)
📍File complaints: West Virginia Division of Labor (labor.wv.gov)
📍Homeowner protections under WV consumer protection law
📍BBB Greater Charleston chapter for complaints history