There are some simple things a homeowner can do to build a lasting relationship with the landscape company they contract with. As a landscape business owner I can say with some authority that if you follow my simple advice you will ultimately receive better service from your landscape company (or any contracting/service company).

The first thing is to find the right landscape company for you. Make an effort to find a reputable company that fits your needs. Someone you feel comfortable with and can trust. Take time to find out about the company and its background/experience level because you are looking for a company for the long term.

Once you find a company, help them to understand you better by meeting with them pre season to review your property and or project. This important meeting will be invaluable in setting expectations for the up coming season and or project. Be ready for this meeting by having a list of needs and concerns ready. Have a copy ready to hand the landscape company’s representative along with all your contact information on it.

Make sure you let the landscape company know your preferred method of communication. What the best times are for you to speak on the phone and what phone number works best. By doing this your landscape company can easily keep you informed and updated as needed.

When things go wrong or there is some problem let the landscape company know before the problem gets worse. Give them an opportunity to rectify the situation before going on the offensive. Nothing ruins my day like the “you people” phone message. A lot of landscape problems will require good team work between client and landscape professional to solve and this only works when a team spirit of cooperation is present.

You do not have to be a big time client to be “A” list. By paying on time consistently you will quickly come to the top of the list. Accounts receivable are a constant problem for landscape companies and the clients that pay promptly are always noticed. I cannot convey to you enough how important this is.

Try to keep in mind most landscape companies are small and the people in it wear many hats and work long hours in the busy season. What this means to you is that your patience will be greatly appreciated in those busy spring and fall seasons. This huge back log further compounded by weather delays makes for a high stress time and an understandable client during these times are long remembered.

How about a cold drink on a hot summer day, a hot coffee during the blizzard, lunch for the crew when they do a great job on your project? All these simple things will build loyalty and appreciation from some of the most important people in the company, the production people.

Good communication, patience, paying on time, and some hospitality.  Now I know that these things all seem so simple but by consistently doing so with your landscape company you will quickly rise to the top of their “A” list. Once on that “A” list you will enjoy the benefit of being a priority for that company. I have the pleasure of having so many of these clients and it makes my job more rewarding and pleasurable. Everyone benefits from the experience.