Irrigation professionals near you

 When looking for a professional to install or fix your sprinkler and irrigation system, it’s a good idea to complete the following steps: 

• Verify their license and insurance: Irrigation licensing varies by state, but it’s important to hire a pro who has the appropriate license and insurance. You can also look for pros who have an Irrigation Association (IA) certified professional on the IA website. 

• Get several estimates: Knowledgeable irrigators will often customize estimates for each property, but all quotes should include labor and materials. 

• Read their reviews: Reviews should be overall positive and should mention timeliness, professionalism and honoring warranties. 

• Look at their portfolios: Look for clean work, well-spaced sprinklers and healthy plants. 

• Find out if they have warranties: Prioritize lawn irrigation companies that offer warranties that include both parts and labor.

• Ask important questions: Get clear about what you can expect in terms of timeline, equipment and cost. Find out about their experience — are they irrigation specialists or landscape generalists? Always about warranties. And pro tip: request references to be completely sure about the quality of the services they provide. 

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page. 

Irrigation professionals offer a range of services, but most typically include:

• Design and installation: They can install a new sprinkler and irrigation system that’s tailored to your yard's specific needs.

• Inspection: Inspections are usually recommended twice a year.

• Maintenance and repairs: Regular service, including winterization and spring start up help ensure system longevity. Pros can also help repair sprinkler leaks and valve issues.

• Emergency service: A reputable irrigator will often respond quickly to urgent calls.

A licensed irrigator typically will not offer the following services: 

• General landscaping: Licensed irrigators are typically specialists who focus exclusively on irrigation systems. However, you may encounter landscapers who are qualified to work on irrigation systems.

• Lawn diagnostics: Diagnosing and treating lawn issues is usually a job for a landscaper or lawn care service professional.

• Lawn maintenance: Despite playing a critical role in lawn health, irrigators generally don’t offer lawn care services.

The cost of irrigation services varies depending on your project’s scope and details. The national average cost of sprinkler repair ranges from around $172 to $649,* according to Thumbtack data. The national average cost for sprinkler installation ranges from around $1,288 to $4,683*.

Several factors might impact the cost of this project, including: 

• Sprinkler type

• Lawn size

• Extent of the repair

• Minimum service fees

• Parts, materials and labor costs

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

If your sprinkler and irrigation system is going south, you might start to notice these signs:  

• Pressure issues: Sprinkler heads spewing excessively or barely sputtering are usually indications of water pressure issues. 

• Stuck sprinkler heads: Sprinkler heads that don't pop up could be a sign of system problems. But before calling the pros, make sure nothing is obstructing their movement. 

• Pooling water: Excessive water around the sprinkler heads can be a sign of a broken head or water leak. Both situations need to be remedied. 

• Water won't shut off: All of these problems can be caused by a bad solenoid, but water that won't shut off is the most obvious sign of this issue. Shut the water off at the controller or main water shut-off valve, and call an irrigation pro.

Once you’ve assessed and completed a preliminary troubleshooting, you may need to schedule a pro to repair or replace your irrigation system.

On average, it costs between $90 and $800 to install a sprinkler system. Most people pay an average cost of $225, but prices can reach as high as $1,320-$5,650.

The cost of labor in your region, the type of sprinkler system you want to install, the size of your lawn, the number of zones and sprinkler heads, and many other factors can impact how much you end up paying for a new sprinkler system. For a more accurate estimate, contact several lawn sprinkler system installation companies and ask for a price quote.

You can hire a lawn sprinkler installation company, technician or contractor to install your new sprinklers. Start by searching on Thumbtack. Simply enter your zip code, and compare the top-rated local professionals. Evaluate them by reading their customer reviews, and view their photos to get an idea of their work and expertise. Make sure to double-check licensing requirements in your state, and look for credentials on each pro’s profile. Finish your search by contacting at least three different pros and comparing their price quotes.

A sprinkler system that’s in good working condition and is able to irrigate the entire yard may add value to the home. One study found that you can potentially recover 86% of the project’s value. You should always chat with a real estate expert to determine which home projects are worth investing in when it comes time to sell your home.

If you install a new sprinkler system, potential buyers may recognize it will save them time and money, as it eliminates the need for them to move a sprinkler around the yard while cutting down on the water bill. However, it’s important to keep your sprinkler system well-maintained to preserve its value.

How often you should sprinkle your lawn ultimately depends on the type of grass you have, how much water your sprinkler system puts out and the weather in your region. Some lawns need about 1 to 1½” of water per week, and many people water their lawns about two to three times per week (and usually in the morning, around 10 a.m.).

After you install your sprinkler system, consider working with a landscaping professional to help you determine the best watering schedule for your lawn.

Some of the most common types of sprinkler systems are as follows:

• An underground (or in-ground) sprinkler system. This option puts all tubing buried underground and out of sight. It may contain pop-up sprinkler heads that disappear from view when not in use.
• Fixed (or stationary) sprinklers are good options for smaller yards.
• Oscillating sprinklers spray a curtain of water back and forth. This type of system tends to be the most common.
• Rotating (or rotary) sprinklers. This type of sprinkler sprays water in a circular, 360-degree pattern.

Chat with a sprinkler installation company to figure out which system is best for your lawn, yard or garden.

The following are the main benefits of installing a sprinkler system:

• It saves time. Whether you install an in-ground, automatic or drip installation, you will no longer have to drag hoses around the yard for irrigation.
• More accurate targeting. You will better target the plants that need water and reduce waste.
• A tidier yard. Without hoses and sprinklers lying around, your yard will look nicer.
• Greater flexibility. Automating your watering means you don’t have to worry about being home to ensure your lawn gets watered.