ServiCover📌 Key Takeaway: For mowing, look for insurance, reliability and clear pricing. For fertilizer and weed control, also confirm the company holds any state pesticide applicator licensing required where you live.
The Checklist
- Insurance — liability coverage for property damage (mowers throw rocks).
- Pesticide licensing — required for chemical applications in many states.
- Written agreement — services, frequency, price, and cancellation terms.
- Reliability — ask how rain delays and missed visits are handled.
- Reviews — look for consistency across a full season.
Red Flags
- Auto-renewing contracts with unclear cancellation terms
- Treatment companies that won't name the products they apply
- No insurance for a crew using commercial mowers
- Prepayment for a full season with a brand-new company
Mowing Crew vs. Full-Service Landscaper
| Mowing Crew | Full-Service Landscaper | |
|---|---|---|
| Services | Mow, edge, blow | Mowing, beds, pruning, planting, cleanups |
| Price | Lower | Higher, often monthly contracts |
| Best for | Simple yards | Larger or landscaped properties |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I sign a yearly contract?
Annual contracts can lock in pricing, but month-to-month or seasonal terms give flexibility if you're unsure about a company.
How do I handle a missed mowing?
Ask how missed visits are credited or rescheduled before signing — policies vary widely.