Most cities have several landscaping companies from large chains to small privately owned businesses. So how do you choose which one will best suit the needs of your community? Are they willing to follow your HOA guidelines? How often will they communicate with you to make sure their work is up to your standards and maintains the best interest of the community and residents? Here are some tips that will help you as you go through the process of hiring the company best suited for you…
Research! Research! Research!
With the world-wide-web right at your fingertips, researching companies of all sorts has suddenly become a lot easier. A quick Google search will pull up a large list of landscaping companies. Take your time to check out their websites and social media platforms. Good companies will actively share pictures of their work and provide you with clear information regarding their services. The pride they display on the internet is usually a solid reflection of the passion they have for providing their clients with exceptional work.
Communication is Key
In order to make sure your needs are continually being met, it is important that the company you hire communicates with you often. Ask them how frequently they will check in as well as their methods of contact. One modern method is using an online portal so that both you, the client, and the company can stay current on what is going on. Service reports can be accessed on the portal- these are an easy way for the company to share what tasks were completed after each visit. If you have any questions, you can message the company at ease. Convenient, eh?
Are They Willing to Attend HOA Meetings?
Monthly HOA meetings are a great place for board members to connect with residents and discuss plans for the community. For landscapers, these meetings are useful in keeping everyone on the same page and avoiding any schedule conflicts. You would not want your community events to be interrupted by a guy on a mower, would you? Ask if they are open to joining in on monthly meetings. This is also the place where they can learn community rules and ordinances. Willingness to abide the rules is a must! You’re going to have a lot of angry neighbors if they get woke up by a leaf blower at sunrise.
Will They Lookout For All Your Needs?
Generally when we think of landscaping, our immediate thought is flower beds and lawn mowing. However, landscaping is much more than that. From mowing the lawn to trimming hedges and pulling weeds. From clearing the autumn leaves to shoveling snow off the sidewalks and putting down salt to keep them clear of ice- would you believe that these are base level expectations? Today’s buyers have a desire to live in communities that offer amenities like pools, playgrounds, walking trails, fire pits, and picnic areas. Finding a company that can maintain all that community has to offer is essential.
Are They Aware of Your Concerns?
Safety is top priority for board member and residents. It is important that the company you hire values safety as much as you do! Ask about their safety methods and if they have ever had any incidents where their own safety or the safety of others has been compromised. You may also want to ask about their equipment- you want to be sure that anything they use while working in your community will not cause damage to the property.
References and Reviews
Any reputable and worthy company will have no problem sharing their reviews and references with you. Don’t hesitate to ask for information of previous and current clients. When you reach out to clients of the past, you may ask why they changed companies. For current clients, find out if they are consistently pleased with the services provided by the landscapers. Take the time to read reviews- these may be listed on their business webpage, if not search the internet and you are sure to find feedback.
Why Should We Pick You?
Simple question, right? In their own opinion, what makes them better than their competitors. Seeing how they respond is a good determining factor. Companies that are proud of who they are and what they stand for will have no trouble telling you what sets them above the rest.
Are They Eager to Come Over?
Are they willing to come over and assess your needs before you hire them? Do they ask you about your expectations? Will they give you a quote after meeting with you? Having them schedule an initial meeting will help assure you that they are able to complete the tasks you need done around the property. Getting a quote allows your to price shop which is great but remember..
Cost is Not Everything
Of course you want a fair price but consider this age old phrase “you get what you pay for.” If you receive a suspiciously low bid, question it. Some things are too good to be true. Don’t be fooled by a person that says their competitors that charge more are scanning you out of money- companies often look out for their own best interest. This is where reading reviews and contacting references comes into play. Trust the process- don’t immediately jump on the first bid. Shop around!
Transitioning
It is likely that you have used other companies in the past and may currently have one actively working on the grounds. The transition from one company to the next might not be easy. Ask how they will help ensure that this process goes as smoothly as possible. Suggest they meet with your previous contractor and take the time to meet with HOA board members. What steps will they take to make sure no issues arise in the transition phase.
Going Green!
Landscaping companies know all about the green but what about sustainability and the environment? Ask them how they get rid of their waste? Do they use chemicals when treating the property? If so, ask about them. How knowledgeable are they on sustainability and protecting the environment?
Making the Choice…
Now that you have an idea of what to ask as well as what to expect, it’s time to take the plunge. Don’t settle until you find the company who is not only going to meet your expectations but exceed them. Having a great landscaper will make a tremendous difference in your community.
Call the pros at A & A Lawn Care & Landscaping to do it right the first time! We help our residential and commercial clients with lawn care and landscaping issues every day!
Contact Us (859-384-0266) for a Free Consultation!
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About A & A Lawn Care & Landscaping
A & A Lawn Care & Landscaping can beautify your lawn and landscaping using our vast experience in turf grass management. Our complete lawn service is designed for both residential and commercial lawns and we keep your lawn healthy without harming your family, staff, or pets.
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