How to Choose a Lawn Maintenance Company

Determine what services the company offers. If all you want is someone to fertilize and help control weeds, a small, local company may be fine for you; however, small companies may not have the capabilities or resources to provide extra services like fence building or landscaping that a larger company could provide.

Understand that almost all states require lawn maintenance companies to be licensed. Ensure any company you are considering has a license in good standing. While having a license doesn't guarantee you and the company will be a good fit, it does mean the company is operating legally and is most likely reputable (e.g. not a fly-by-night outfit).

Ask if the company is associated with any professional lawn care associations. Here again, belonging to an association doesn't guarantee the company will be right for you, but professional associations do have standards all members must meet before being accepted for membership, and being a member is a sign of a company committed to doing a good job

Find out if the company will willingly tell you what chemicals and pesticides it will apply to your lawn. Since some companies use "natural" fertilizers rather than chemicals, they may be a more comfortable choice for you. Also ensure the company will post warning signs on your lawn after they apply any chemicals as a matter of course.

Determine if the company will work with you to improve your lawn. For example, if you're going to be the one doing the mowing, it's important your lawn maintenance company work with you and tell you the proper mowing procedures and watering requirements for your yard. Things like cutting the grass too short or overwatering can stress your lawn, and you need to be told it you are making any mistakes.

Consider the company's reputation. Ask friends, neighbors and relatives if they have had any experience with the company and get their opinion. It's also a good idea to ask the company itself for a few references in your neighborhood.