What to Know Before You Dig
Thinking about adding a pond to your backyard or business property? Whether you want a peaceful koi pond, a bold pondless waterfall, or a full-scale recreational swimming pond, the most important decision you’ll make is who you hire to build it.
Not all pond builders are created equal—especially in a growing metro area like Charlotte, NC, where landscaping trends meet tight property lines, unpredictable clay soil, and HOA restrictions.
So how do you choose the right contractor? Let’s walk through what makes a great pond builder (and what to avoid), with a few local insights from our team at Hoaglandscape.
What Makes a Great Pond Builder?
1. Specialized Experience in Water Features
There’s a difference between a general landscaper who’s “done a few ponds” and a company that builds water features all day, every day.
You want a team that understands:
- Proper filtration and circulation
- Fish-safe construction for koi ponds
- Elevation and water flow dynamics
- How to prevent leaks long-term
At Hoaglandscape, for example, we don’t just install ponds—we live and breathe them. From pondless waterfalls in Belmont to koi pond renovations in Lake Wylie, we’ve built systems that stay beautiful and functional for years.
2. Local Knowledge Matters
Charlotte’s soil can be tricky—red clay doesn’t drain well, and hilly terrain can create runoff issues. A qualified local pond builder should:
- Know how to grade for proper water movement
- Anticipate root intrusion from local trees like oaks and sweetgums
- Design with the Carolinas’ freeze-thaw cycles in mind
Ask your builder: “Have you worked in neighborhoods like SouthPark, Belmont, or Lake Norman?” If they have, you’re on the right track.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Not sure how to vet a contractor? Use these questions:
- How many ponds have you built—and what kind?
Look for experience with koi ponds, pondless waterfalls, and swimming ponds—not just one type. - Can I see photos or visit past projects?
A reputable builder will proudly showcase their work. If they can’t—run. - What’s your warranty or service plan?
Every pond needs maintenance. Make sure your builder offers cleaning, repairs, and support down the road. - Do you use ecosystem-style designs?
These rely on biological filtration, rocks, plants, and fish to keep water healthy naturally—with less need for chemicals. - Are you certified or affiliated with a network like Aquascape?
While not required, certification shows they’ve invested in ongoing training and best practices.
Red Flags to Avoid
- “We can throw in a pond with your mulch job.”
(Nope. Ponds are not an afterthought—they’re a specialty.) - Concrete-bottomed ponds with no filtration system
(A shortcut that often ends in expensive repairs) - No mention of maintenance
(Pond builders who don’t offer cleaning or tune-ups usually aren’t planning to stick around.)
Why Charlotte Property Owners Choose Hoaglandscape
We’re not a volume-based landscaper—we’re a creative water feature design-build company based right here in Belmont, serving the Charlotte metro, Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, and surrounding areas. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Custom designs tailored to your property and goals
- Naturalistic features using local stone and plantings
- Proven ecosystem filtration for low-maintenance, healthy water
- Year-round maintenance packages
- Five-star reviews from homeowners and businesses across the Carolinas
“The swim pond is magical. Unfortunately I was in such awe that I failed to take pictures.”
– Keith, Belmont, NC (Google Review)
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Build a Pond—Create a Destination
The right pond builder will help you create more than a water feature—they’ll craft a space that draws you outdoors, reduces stress, and connects you with nature.
If you’re in Charlotte, Gastonia, Lake Norman, or anywhere nearby, we’d love to talk about your vision. Whether it’s your first pond or a major renovation, we’re here to help you bring it to life.
