How to Hire a Landscaping Service

In most instances, you are hiring a landscaping service because you want to free up your time, because you don't enjoy it or because you are physically unable to do it yourself. Whatever the reason, you want to make an intelligent decision when it comes to hiring a landscaping service. Hiring a landscaping service is like hiring any other contractor: You want to get the best value for your money; you want to hire someone who is capable and dependable; and you want your lawn, trees, flowerbeds and bushes to add to the beauty of your home through knowledgeable care.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Hire a Landscaping Service

1. Research landscaping service companies in your area, also considering any companies who have left fliers on your doorstep advertising their services. Make a list of at least three companies that you want to give you an estimate on their services.

2. Call the three companies and request a free estimate. Be sure to be specific about the services you will require, such as weekly mowing, lawn fertilization, spring and fall cleanup, tree and bush trimming, and mulching.

3. Meet with each of the representatives of the three companies to further explain your requirements and expectations. Also ask for references at this time. Make sure that they are insured and that you feel confident that they are capable and dependable.

4. Evaluate all three of the estimates and determine which service meets your needs. Consider the overall cost, as well as the quality of the company and its employees.

5. Sign the contract. Beware of any service that does not give you a contract to sign. You want all the services and costs to be spelled out and agreed to by both parties.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your contract includes a clause stating that the contract can be canceled at any time. If the service is not what you expected it to be, or extenuating circumstances occur where you can no longer afford the service, you will want a way out of that agreement.
• If you are unhappy with an employee or service, be sure to communicate this to the person in charge. In most cases, the problem can be resolved. After all, you are their customer, and you are paying for the service.