If you own a commercial property, then landscaping is a part of doing business – whether you like it or not.
To help take one more thing off your plate (and help boost your curb appeal in the process), consider hiring a commercial landscape contractor. But how do you choose the right contractor? And what services do you really need?
To help find the best lawn-care solution for you, here are some simple business landscaping tips.
What is included in commercial landscaping?
When you choose a landscape contractor, it’s important to know that there’s no one-size-fits-all plan. The services you choose should be tailored to the unique needs of your property. Here are some jobs you may want to consider.
- Mowing: Regularly mowing the lawn on your property is often the foundation of a landscape maintenance contract. This also includes trimming weeds and edging around the driveway and sidewalks.
- Turf care: Want to keep your grass looking green and healthy? A landscaper can create the right combination of services such as seeding, fertilizer, aeration and weed control to improve the look of your lawn.
- Landscape enhancements: If you want to boost your curb appeal, a landscaper can help. Services range from mulching and planting flowers to more in-depth designs such as installing water features, paver patios or retaining walls.
- Snow removal: If you live in an area that snows in the winter, your landscape contractor will likely offer snow removal for driveways and parking lots.
Do I need seasonal landscape services?
In addition to a regular maintenance contract, you may want to consider adding more services based on the season.
- Spring landscape maintenance. Spring cleanup can include removing any downed tree branches, pruning flowers and getting rid of old mulch. It’s also a good time to fertilize your grass and address any weak or dead spots.
- Summer landscape maintenance. During the summer months, you may want a landscaper to trim hedges, weed flower beds and address any insect or disease damage to your plants.
- Fall landscape maintenance. Depending on how many trees are on or near your property, you may want a landscaper to handle leaf cleanup and removal. Fall cleanup is also a great time to cut back perennial plants and fertilize your grass.
- Winter landscape maintenance. In warmer climates, your lawn may benefit from winter fertilization. In colder climates, you’ll save time (and your back) by letting your landscaper handle snow removal.
How should I choose a landscaper for my business?
Looking for a landscape contractor? Here’s how you can find the perfect match for your business.
- Know your needs. Before you contact a landscape contractor, have an understanding of the services you want. Some commercial landscapers may only provide lawn care, while others can provide everything listed above. Clearly articulate what you want – and what you don’t – when getting a quote.
- Check credentials. In the landscaping industry, there are a number of qualifications, certifications and licenses that may be required – especially if pesticides or herbicides are being used. Ask about your landscaper’s certifications and make sure they’re appropriately licensed and insured. You may also want to ask for contact information from a few other business clients so you can check references.
- Get multiple quotes. It never hurts to get competitive quotes from two or three companies before settling on a landscaper for your property. Commercial landscaping costs often can be more varied than residential, so securing several quotes can help you weed out unreasonable estimates.
- Choose the best value. After receiving quotes, select the landscaper you feel will provide the best value. And keep in mind, that doesn’t always mean choosing the company with the lowest quote. A low-cost landscaper may also bring less experience or resources to the table. Reliability and a proven track record in the commercial landscaping arena should weigh heavily in your decision-making.
- Get it in writing. Never agree to a landscaping service without a signed contract that outlines timelines, frequency, costs, services and expectations. This will ensure both you and the landscaper are on the same page and provide documentation should services not meet your expectations.
How much does commercial landscaping cost?
It’s hard to estimate exactly how much you’ll pay for commercial landscaping. That’s because your cost will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your property and the services provided. According to HomeAdvisor, a basic grass-cutting service can range between $30 to $80 per visit, while more comprehensive lawn-maintenance contracts can cost anywhere from $120 to $430 per visit.
What are the benefits of good commercial landscaping?
We know you’re probably capable of cutting your own grass. But here are some benefits of hiring a professional landscaping contractor.
- Look professional and reputable. The outside of your property is the first impression customers will get of your business. Good landscaping boosts the aesthetic appearance, providing a more professional look and feel. And who knows? It may even attract a few new customers.
- Save time. As a business owner, you already juggle what feels like a million different commitments. Leaving the landscaping to a professional allows you to focus on the most important parts of building your business while ensuring your property looks great week after week.
- Improve property values. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics, homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for an average of 7% more than similar properties with a less-than-inviting exterior. And the same principle applies to commercial buildings. So keep in mind that there’s also an economic return on your landscaping investment.
- Create more usable space.
The Covid-19 pandemic has made outdoor spaces more important than ever. A welcoming landscape with patio tables, benches and other seating areas could provide great additional meeting spaces for employees and customers alike.
A partner you can trust.
Your business deserves great protection from a company you can trust. At Erie Insurance, our business insurance policies are designed around your specific needs – helping you safeguard the business you’ve worked so hard to build. To learn more, contact us today.
