April showers are about to bring May flowers, and Better Business Bureau® of Minnesota and North Dakota is here to guide consumers who are looking to spruce up their yards by contracting lawn services.
Because lawn care services are seasonal, remembering how to choose a reputable, fairly priced company can be tricky, and scammers masquerading as door-to-door service solicitors don’t make things any easier. When you set out to beautify your lawn, BBB wants you to keep these pointers in mind:
• Request a lawn inspection and cost estimate. Companies that quote a price without actually seeing your lawn can’t be totally sure what your lawn needs.
• Get more than one quote. You should always shop around for the best value, and make sure all bids consider the same set of criteria.
• Ask for references and photos of previous work. If the company has done landscaping work nearby, consider visiting the location to see their work for yourself. Don’t be afraid to contact and question references – they might tell you something a Google search didn’t!
• Get specific about pricing. Make sure you’ve clarified in writing whether you’re paying for a one-time project or ongoing maintenance and the amount and frequency of payments. Hash out other details, for instance: What happens if it rains the day someone is supposed to mow your lawn? Who bags the clippings? Is there an extra charge for that?
• Check for company insurance. Does the company provide liability and workman’s compensation insurance to protect you if there’s an accident on the job?
• Clarify timing and safety precautions. Will the work be done while you’re at home or away? If the company is applying pesticides to your lawn, do you need to do anything to protect your family or pets?
• Get everything in writing. To protect yourself as a consumer, make sure every part of your agreement is written down and contains all promises made and topics discussed. Look for guarantees and refund policies, and get copies of anything you sign, including receipts – and don’t lose them later.
BBB wants consumers to Start With Trust® so you are equipped with tools to choose quality companies and have positive experiences in the marketplace. If that isn’t the case, visit bbb.org to file a complaint against a specific company or to report a scam by using our Scam Tracker.
