Business Landscape Tips | May’s insurance fund

If you own a commercial property, landscaping is 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 you find the best lawn solution for you, here are some simple tips for commercial landscaping.

What is included in commercial landscaping?

When choosing a landscape contractor, it̵

7;s important to know that there is no one-size-fits-all plan. The services you choose should be tailored to your property’s unique needs. Here are some jobs you might want to consider.

• Cutting: Regular mowing of the lawn on your property is often the basis of a landscape maintenance agreement. This also includes weeding and edging around driveways and sidewalks.
• Lawn Care: Do you want to keep your grass green and healthy? A landscaper can create the right combination of services such as seeding, fertilizer, aeration and weed control to improve the appearance of your lawn.
• Landscaping Improvements: If you want to increase 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 gets snow in the winter, your landscape contractor will likely offer snow removal for driveways and parking lots.

Do I need seasonal landscaping services?

In addition to a standard maintenance contract, consider adding more services based on the season.

• Spring landscaping. Spring cleaning can include removing any downed tree branches, pruning flowers and getting rid of old compost. It is also a good time to fertilize the grass and fix any weak or dead spots.
• Maintenance of the landscape summer. 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.
• Autumn landscape maintenance. Depending on how many trees are on or near your property, you may want to hire a landscaper to handle leaf clearing and removal. Fall cleaning is also a good time to cut back perennials and fertilize your grass.
• Winter landscape maintenance. In warmer climates, your lawn can benefit from winter fertilizing. In colder climates, you save time (and your back) by having your landscaper handle the snow removal.

How should I choose a landscape architect for my business?

Looking for a landscape contractor? Here’s how to find the perfect match for your business.

• Know your needs. Before contacting a landscape contractor, have an understanding of the services you want. Some commercial landscapers may only provide lawn, while others may provide all of the above. Clearly explain what you want – and what you don’t want – when you get a quote.
• Check credentials. In the horticulture industry there are a number of qualifications, certifications and licenses that may be required – especially if pesticides or herbicides are used. Ask about your landscaper’s certifications and make sure they are properly licensed and insured. You may also want to ask for contact information from some other business clients so you can check references.
• Get multiple quotes. It never hurts to get competitive quotes from two or three companies before choosing a landscaper for your property. Commercial landscaping costs can often be more variable than residential, so securing multiple quotes can help you weed out unreasonable estimates.
• Choose the best value. After receiving quotes, select the landscaper you believe provides the best value. And remember, that doesn’t always mean choosing the company with the lowest price. A low-cost landscape architect may also bring less experience or resources to the table. Reliability and a proven track record in the commercial landscape arena should weigh heavily in your decision making.
• Get it in writing. Never agree to a landscaping project without a signed contract outlining timelines, frequency, costs, services and expectations. This ensures that both you and the landscaper are on the same page and provides documentation if the services do not meet your expectations.

How Much Does Commercial Landscaping Cost?

It is difficult to estimate exactly how much you will 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 Home counselora basic lawn mowing service can range from $30 to $80 per visit, while more extensive 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 mowing your own lawn. But here are some benefits of hiring a professional landscape contractor.

• Look professional and serious. The exterior of your property is the first impression customers get of your business. Good landscaping enhances the aesthetic appearance and provides a more professional look and feel. And who knows? It might even attract some new customers.
• Save time. As a business owner, you are already juggling what feels like a million different commitments. By leaving the landscaping to a professional, you can 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 inviting exterior. And the same principle applies to commercial buildings. So keep in mind that there is also a financial 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 could provide fantastic additional meeting places for employees and customers alike.

A partner you can trust.

Your business deserves good protection from a company you can trust. At Erie Insurance, spring business insurance policies are designed around your specific needs – helping you protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build. Contact us today if you want to know more.