Choosing a landscape maintenance company can be a bigger chore than a mid-summer mow, especially if you don’t know much about the industry. Should they provide their own equipment? What price is the right price? Do you choose a professional company or the kid next door who’s saving for summer camp?
Some of these questions are better than others, and asking the right ones can help you make the best decision before signing a contract. So you can choose a company that’ fits your landscape and your lifestyle, here are 7 questions to ask before choosing a landscape maintenance company.
What services do you need?
Take a look at your landscape. What unique needs does it have? Do you need simple mowing, or do you have pesky weed problems that require attention? Do you have a simple home and garden, or do you have extra items like sprinkler systems or retention ponds that need maintaining? Once you’ve determined which maintenance services you must have, you can move on to..
What services do they provide?
Maintenance companies vary in terms of scope and skill. While some focus on basic maintenance services like mowing, edging, and mulch, others may include lawn treatment services like fertilizers, weed control, and soil testing. You should know what any maintenance company you’re considering offers and consider what services you need now as well as ones you may want in the future.
How’s their reputation?
Before choosing any maintenance company, do some research on their reputation. You can do online searches through Google or the Better Business Bureau (BBB), but it’s usually most helpful to ask people around your area for references. This could be your family and friends, people in your social networks, or even that neighbor with the lushest lawn on the block. They’ll steer you in the right direction and may even get a benefit from the company by referring you over (we offer a generous referral award to thank our loyal customers for new business).
Are they covered?
At minimum, any maintenance company you choose should be licensed and insured. This will guarantee you aren’t left holding the bill if an employee is insured on your property or damages part of your landscape.
Are they committed?
Is this a profession – or just a hobby? While knowing the answer isn’t as easy as asking for proof of insurance, you can start by asking if they’re accredited by or affiliated with any professional landscape organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals. This will show that the company is committed to the profession, uses best landscape practices, and is up-to-date on the latest industry information.
Are they qualified?
Is the company you’re considering qualified to do the job? Proper landscape maintenance goes well beyond being able to operate a lawn mower. A qualified company should be able to tell you specifics about your plants and grass type and offer industry-approved solutions to help your landscape look its best.
How’s their customer service?
How well a company treats their customers can tell you a lot about how they will care for your landscape. If they’re quick to return phone calls, they’ll likely be available for any questions you have down the road. On the other hand, If they no-show for your initial appointment, they probably won’t stick to a service schedule. You should look for a company that’s easy to contact, uses current technology for billing and scheduling, and treats their customers – and their property – with respect.
If you’re still searching for the best landscape maintenance company in South Alabama, consider Chad’s Landscape Management! Our professional team is licensed, certified, and insured, and we offer comprehensive maintenance packages that keep your landscape in optimal health and beauty. Contact us today!
