How to Choose the Right Stormwater Contractor

When managing stormwater systems, the stakes are high. The right contractor not only ensures your systems are functioning optimally but also protects your property from potential legal and environmental liabilities.

With numerous contractors to choose from in the Maryland, DC, and Virginia area, how do you make the best decision? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pick a stormwater contractor that best fits your property’s needs.

Stormwater Company’s Experience with Various BMPs

Stormwater management is complex, involving various Best Management Practices (BMPs) such as retention ponds, bioretention cells, sand filters, oil-grit separators, and underground detention systems. Each of these systems has unique requirements for maintenance, inspection, and repair.

A contractor with extensive experience across multiple BMPs can provide tailored solutions that keep your systems running efficiently and in compliance with local regulations.

Keep in mind that many general contractors or landscapers will claim that they understand stormwater management. The truth is that landscapers are not stormwater people and stormwater people are not landscapers. There are nuances in each of these disciplines that require true knowledge and practical experience.

What to Look For:

Project Portfolio

Review the contractor’s portfolio to see if they’ve worked on properties or stormwater systems similar to your own. What did the before and after pictures look like? Were they able to clear a violation or fix a major issue for a property owner?

References

Ask for references specific to the BMPs that are relevant to your property. If you are an education institution, ask if the stormwater contractor has worked on institutions of similar size and ask to see a case study.

Certifications

Check if the contractor holds certifications or has specialized training in stormwater management practices.

Regulatory Knowledge

Stormwater regulations are constantly evolving, and non-compliance can lead to significant fines, legal issues, and environmental damage. A qualified contractor must have a deep understanding of local, state, and federal stormwater regulations and how they apply to different types of BMPs.

Regulations in the mid-Atlantic (particularly Maryland, DC, and Virginia) are fairly strict. Your stormwater contractor should be proactive in helping you meet compliance requirements and keeping you informed about any regulatory changes that could impact your property.

What to Look For:

Regulatory Compliance Expertise

Ensure the contractor is familiar with the specific stormwater regulations in your area. Do they know county/city inspectors where your property is located? Do they have experience with stormwater violation corrections?

Documentation

The contractor should provide detailed documentation, including inspection reports, maintenance records, and compliance certifications. Ask the stormwater contractor about what documentation you’ll receive to prove regular and responsible maintenance for your property and that any violation have been corrected to city/county standards.

Continual Education

Contractors who participate in ongoing training or are members of industry organizations are more likely to be up-to-date on regulatory changes.

Comprehensive Services

Stormwater systems require more than just periodic inspections. They need regular maintenance, timely repairs, and occasional upgrades or retrofits to ensure long-term functionality and compliance. A contractor that offers comprehensive services can manage all aspects of your stormwater system, providing peace of mind that your property is fully protected.

What to Look For:

Maintenance Plans

Does the contractor offer customizable maintenance plans that meet your specific needs? The stormwater facilities on your property need to be assessed and maintained at regular intervals. A good stormwater contractor will help determine how often to visit and work on your facilities based on your system’s specific requirements and your budget.

Emergency Services

Ensure the contractor provides emergency repair services in case of unexpected issues. Problems will arise. You’ll need to make sure that your stormwater contracting partner is there to help with unpredictable situations.

System Retrofits

A solid stormwater contractor should be able to recommend and implement system upgrades or retrofits, which is a valuable service.

Call our team at (410) 231-3455⁩ to chat about your property or schedule a free consultation online.

Proven Track Record

Experience matters, but so does a contractor’s reputation. A proven track record of success indicates that the contractor consistently delivers high-quality work and satisfies client needs. When researching contractors, look for those who have a history of working on projects similar to yours and have received positive feedback from their clients.

What to Look For:

Client Testimonials

Positive testimonials and reviews are good indicators of reliable service.

Case Studies

Review detailed case studies that highlight the contractor’s problem-solving skills and expertise. If you can’t readily find case studies, ask the stormwater contractor. They should be able to walk you through recent projects with challenges similar to the ones your property is facing.

Awards and Recognition

Industry awards or recognition can also reflect a contractor’s commitment to excellence.

Customer Service and Communication

Effective communication is essential for a successful contractor-client relationship. Your stormwater contractor should be responsive, transparent, and willing to collaborate closely with you. They should provide clear timelines, detailed reports, and regular updates on the status of your stormwater systems.

What to Look For:

Responsive Support

Ensure the contractor offers prompt communication and support, especially in emergencies. From email to phone support, you should be able to reach your account manager or project manager when you need them.

Transparent Pricing

Look for contractors who provide clear and detailed pricing information upfront. Oftentimes, quotes will include the cost of the work, materials, disposal, and should clearly show any variable costs that will be finalized once work is complete.

Regular Updates

Contractors should offer consistent updates and detailed reports on maintenance activities and system performance.

Insurance & Bonding

Before hiring any contractor, it’s important to verify that they are properly licensed, insured, and bonded. Licensing ensures that the contractor meets the minimum qualifications required to perform the work. Insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project, while bonding offers financial protection if the contractor fails to complete the work as agreed.

What to Look For:

Adequate Insurance

Ensure the contractor carries both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. You should request a certificate of insurance to verify your stormwater partner’s insurance status.

Bonding

A bonded contractor provides additional security that the project will be completed to your satisfaction.

Why iSTORMWATER is Your Best Stormwater Contractor Choice

At iSTORMWATER, we go above and beyond to ensure that our clients receive top-notch service across all aspects of stormwater management. Our extensive experience with a wide range of BMPs—from retention and detention ponds to sand filters and bioretention systems—means we can handle any challenge your stormwater systems present. We stay current with the latest regulations, offering you peace of mind that your property is compliant and protected.

Our comprehensive services cover everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs, and our commitment to customer satisfaction means you’ll always receive the best care and communication. With iSTORMWATER, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re partnering with a team dedicated to safeguarding your property and the environment.

Call our team at (410) 231-3455⁩ to chat about your property and or schedule a free consultation online.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right stormwater contractor is a critical decision that directly impacts the safety, compliance, and longevity of your stormwater systems. By focusing on experience, regulatory knowledge, comprehensive services, customer care, and proper licensing, you can make an informed choice that benefits your property for years to come.

With iSTORMWATER, you’re choosing expertise, reliability, and a partner committed to the success of your stormwater management.