Earlier this spring, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) published some tips on hiring a lawn care service. In 2013 alone, the BBB says it received more than 3,500 complaints against lawn care companies. Many of the complaints were about shoddy workmanship, a faulty contract, or billing and collection issues.
It’s hard to spot an inferior lawn care company, as some of the biggest and shiniest are some of the shoddiest. That’s why BBB offers the following tips to consumers. Ask yourself: If every potential customer ran through this exercise, would my phone ever ring?
- Ask contractors about the services they offer and products they use.
- Be wary of contractors that offer estimates without inspecting the property.
- Ask for specifics in the services offered, such as how and how often the lawn will be mowed, is edging and cleanup included, etc.
- Find out if any of the services are provided by a subcontractor.
- Ask to see the contractor’s license, certifications, etc.
- Ask for references.
- As for specifics in the contract, such as cancellation and renewal stipulations, guarantees, etc.
- Get written estimates from at least three contractors, and keep in mind that the lowest isn’t necessarily the best option.
