10 TIPS

How To Find The Right Lawn Service For Your Job

Know what you want from a lawn service: Lawn care companies provide many services, including mowing, maintenance, aeration, landscaping, fertilization, pest control applications, and tree care.

Find out which companies provide service in your neighborhood: Ask your neighbors or friends for a recommendation.

Ask for a lawn inspection and a free estimate for service: Services that quote a price without seeing your lawn cannot be sure what your lawn might need.

Ask about the price system and what services are included: Lawn services may offer a yearly contract or a simple verbal agreement giving the customer the right to discontinue service at any time. Find out what happens if you have a problem between contracts. Will the service calls be free or is there a charge?

Consider annual costs vs. cost per application: Many companies allow you to pay after each treatment and may offer a discount if you pay the annual cost up front.

Get a written agreement about costs and services before you pay: Document the duration and expected results of the lawn care service.

Look for guarantees and refund policies: Some services may offer a guarantee of performance. Others may offer refunds if they fail to meet your expectations.

Make sure the service is licensed to apply lawn care products as required by state law: Check with your state Department of Agriculture or Environmental Department for details.

Look for professional membership: A service’s membership in one or more professional lawn care associations and active participation in the local community is a positive sign. Professional organizations keep members informed on new developments in pest control methods, safety, training, research and regulation. Most associations have a code of ethics for members to follow. Affiliation with a professional group is one indication that a company strives for quality in its work.

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