Waylon Cunningham

A beautiful lawn can be both appealing and environmentally friendly, but it can take a lot of work and be a tricky project, and the best of circumstances can still be challenging; extended periods of extreme weather, dull lawnmower blades, bugs, pests, and heavy foot traffic can all lead to a lawn that needs extra care.

Before selecting a business, evaluate your needs. Some businesses specialize in one area, while others offer various services.

LANDSCAPING: Landscaping businesses design landscapes for designated areas, select the appropriate plants, and provide and install the plants.

LAWN MAINTENANCE: Services generally include mowing, edging, weeding of flower beds, treating for insect disease, weed control, trimming of shrubs, irrigation systems checks, and fertilizing.

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS/IRRIGATION: Services provided by sprinkler system businesses include design installation, general maintenance, and repair. A license is required in the State of Texas.

“Whether you’re dreaming of lush gardens, vibrant outdoor spaces, or just ready to reclaim your lawn”, Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Central East Texas said, “Choosing the right landscaper makes all the difference—so make sure you research several before choosing one.”

BBB offers the following tips when considering hiring a lawn care professional:

Research and gather information. Once you have decided what services you need and your budget, get recommendations from friends and neighbors with lawns you admire. You can search for a business’s BBB Business Profile at BBB.org to get free information on their history of complaints, read customer reviews, and see if they are a BBB Accredited Business. You can get a list of BBB Accredited lawn maintenance companies. Always look for the BBB Seal. It’s the Sign of a Better Business.

Ask for a lawn inspection. Services that quote a price without seeing your lawn cannot be sure what your lawn might need. Businesses will sometimes charge you to discuss specific landscaping ideas to protect themselves against clients who want to get their ideas and implement them themselves. They often credit you for the initial fee if you contract with the business.

Ask for references and pictures of other jobs they installed or maintained. Ask the landscaper to provide references from previous clients. If possible, visit these locations to get a first-hand view of the quality of their work. Ask the references about their experiences with the landscaper’s services, professionalism, and the quality of work performed. Also, inquire about the landscaper’s expertise and experience. Ask about their training, qualifications, and any other certifications related to landscaping or horticulture.

Clarify pricing and services upfront. Are you paying per project or for ongoing maintenance? Discuss your needs—lawn care, design, installation, or upkeep—to ensure they’re covered. Know if you’re billed per mow or monthly, and ask about discounts for annual payments. What happens if it rains? Does mowing include edging and cleanup? Who handles clippings? Check if service calls between visits are free or extra. If maintaining the landscaping yourself, get clear instructions. A reputable landscaper should leave your property clean and orderly.

Check for professional affiliations. Membership in groups like the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) shows a commitment to quality, ethics, and industry standards. These organizations provide training, safety updates, and the latest best practices—signs of a reputable business. Community involvement is another positive indicator.

Get everything in writing and read contracts carefully. Ensure all promises, services, and terms—like duration and expected results—are clearly documented. Some contracts auto-renew until canceled, so understand the terms upfront. Check for guarantees, refund policies, and details on plants or materials. Always keep copies of anything you sign.

Ask about timing and safety. Will the work be done while you are home or away? Are there safety precautions you need to take during or after work? If pesticides are used, do you need to protect your family or pets? Is the timing of the application good for the weather conditions? A consumer reported to BBB in 2019 that “[…] the last herbicide had been applied when the weather was too hot (85 degrees or above) and that it burned the grass.”

Discuss payment and warranties. Discuss payment terms, including the deposit, payment schedule, and accepted payment methods. It’s better to pay by check or credit card, but if you make full payment in cash, be sure to obtain written verification from the business with a list of labor and material charges covered by the payment. Also, ask if the landscaper offers any guarantees or warranties on their work. This can give you peace of mind that they stand behind the quality of their services.

By following these tips, you’ll better understand the landscaper’s qualifications, services, and approach to your landscaping needs. Choosing a BBB Accredited landscaper ensures you work with a professional who values integrity, transparency, and customer satisfaction.