Finding a reliable lawn care provider

Sunny spring days have many homeowners thinking about getting their lawns in shape. Some may want to get their lawn mowed while others may be considering a major landscaping project, such as a patio, deck or fence.

Consumers can save themselves a lot of hassle by considering their budget and any deadlines they have for completing a project. You should ask contractors whether they have done work nearby and ask for addresses so you can inspect the work and ask other homeowners about their experience working with the company.

If you’re hiring a lawn service company for the season, make sure you and the lawn service have clear, written expectations for what the company will provide for the agreed-upon fees.

The BBB offers the following advice to help consumers find a lawn care or landscaping company:

Know what you want. Lawn care and landscaping companies provide many services, so it is important to decide what services and products are appropriate for your needs and budget. What do you want the yard, patio or deck to look like when the job is complete?

Ask around. Ask friends and family what lawn care companies they use. If you’re considering a major project like a deck or patio, ask friends if you can see their projects and ask how it was to work with the contractor.

Ask for a lawn inspection and free estimate. Lawn care companies that quote a price without seeing your lawn cannot be sure what you need. A landscaper will need to measure the area where the patio or deck will go and consider access to the yard. Quality companies will offer an estimate only after they see what they are working with.

Request a written contract. A contract should clearly state the services you will receive, as well as how you will pay for it. If you are contracting for a recurring service, it should state how often the company will mow your lawn and when you will be billed.

Remember the rule of thirds. If you’re getting a new patio, deck or major landscaping, consider paying a third of the contract amount to secure the contract, a third when the work is half done and the final third only after the job is completed and you are satisfied with the work.

To request a free BBB Business Review or to report a complaint or scam, please contact the mid-Missouri BBB at manager@midmobbb.org or 573-886-8965.