THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, ApRil 12, 2024 Page 11 BBB TIP | FROM PAGE 10 your lawn? Does mowing include edging? Who bags and disposes of the clippings and other refuse? Find out what happens if you have a problem between contracts. Will the service calls be free, or is there a charge? If you are maintaining the landscaping yourself, ask for detailed instructions and be prepared to follow them. Also verify the landscaper’s clean-up process. A reputable landscaper should leave your property in a clean and orderly condition. • Check if the lawn care provider needs a license to work in your area. Confirm that the landscaper holds the necessary licenses and insurance. This protects you and the landscaper in case of accidents, injuries or damage during the project. In particular, they might need a license to apply pesticides. Ensure that the business provides liability and worker’s compensation insurance to protect you in the event of an accident. Ask for a certificate of insurance from the business’s insurance agent. • Look for membership in a professional organization. A service’s membership in one or more professional lawn care associations and active participation in the local community are positive signs. Professional organizations, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals, keep members informed on new pest control methods, safety, training, research and regulation developments. Most associations have a code of ethics for members to follow. Affiliation with a professional group is one indication that a company strives for quality in its work. • Ask about materials and plant choices. If your project involves plantings, inquire about the types of plants, trees and materials the landscaper plans to use. Ensure they are suitable for your climate and preferences. • Get everything in writing and read all agreements and contracts carefully. Make sure the contract contains all topics discussed and promises made. Document the duration and expected results of the lawn care service. Some consumers are unaware that contracts can be open-ended, meaning they renew until the client specifically terminates. A consumer reported to BBB in the summer of 2018 that “I never agreed to any White Grub control in addition to my regular lawn service, nor did they leave me a message saying anything about this. Instead, I just got billed for it. I called and they said that the service this year is the same as the service last year.” Ensure you understand how that works and how you can cancel. The contract should list the quantity, size and types of plants and other materials. Look for guarantees and refund policies. Some services might offer a guarantee of performance. Others might offer refunds if they fail to meet your expectations. Get 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. For more information: Learn more tips on hiring a contractor at https://www. bbb.org/all/home-improvement/how-to-hire-a-reliable-and-trustworthy-general-contractor. Need help with your project? Find trusted, vetted landscape pros near you and get a quote at https://www.bbb. org/near-me/landscape-contractors. See BBB’s landscaping HQ at https://www.bbb. org/all/landscaping for more tips and resources.
12 Publizr Home