How to Bid on Landscaping Contracts

Landscape care improves property values.

Winning a bid is the impetus for arranging an interview with a landscaping client. Securing the contract is the expected result of the meeting. Anticipate questions from the client and respond to them courteously and professionally. Develop an understanding of what the client requires and list his wishes on a bid sheet. Explain the freedom from worrying about lawn care and the attention to detail a landscape contract will provide. Make clear how quality care improves landscape appearance, increases property values and demonstrates a high level of pride of ownership to the community.

Things You'll Need

• Bid sheet for recording pertinent data
• Work order or contract

Instructions

1. 

   Walk the property to determine the scope of the job.

   Familiarize yourself with the terrain in question by completing a "walk-through" of the property with the client; take digital photos and note specific areas needing attention.

2. 

   Sacked mulch, helps to conserve moisture around plants.

   Calculate the amount and types of mulch, top soil, fertilizer and other materials needed for the job. Determine if insects are damaging plant foliage. Check for evidence of diseased foliage. Inspect lawns and decorative grasses for proper irrigation.

3. 

   Select the right piece of equipment for the job.

   Note what equipment, such as Z-turn mower; power edger, weed-eater, jet blower, walk-behind mower or power-trimmers will need to be used; include these and any specialized tools, on your bid sheet.

4. 

   Determine the number of people assigned to a job.

   Compute the number of man hours required; multiply the number of people assigned to the job by the number of hours, or fraction thereof, to calculate actual man hours. For instance, three people taking an hour to do a job equals three man hours.

5. 

   Write out a work order in the privacy of your vehicle.

   Retire to a quiet spot; your vehicle, office or even a coffee shop. Analyze your notes and tabulate numbers taken down during the walk-through. Utilizing pertinent data from the bid sheet, complete a work order or prepare a landscape contract for the client's authorization. Above the signature space, on either document, enter the date the bid will expire due to market fluctuations and availability of materials and supplies. Review the paper work for accuracy and present it to the client for his signature.

Tips & Warnings

• Request a minimum of 30 percent deposit be paid when the contract is signed.

• Be prepared to provide at least three references if requested.

• Complex landscaping bids may require a formal design plan. Deliver a design plan to the client at a subsequent date.

References

• "Spon's' Landscape Contract Handbook; Hugh Clamp; 1995
• How to Start a Home-Based Landscaping Business

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Rutgers Professional Landscape Program: Home Page