Look, I get it. choosing a lawn care company feels like it should be simple but then you start googling and suddenly there’s 47 different options and they all claim to be “the best”. Been there.
So let me break this down for you the way I wish someone had done for me years ago.
## **Start With The Basics (But Don’t Stop There)**
First things first – are they actually legit? I’m talking:
– Do they have insurance? (trust me on this one)
– Are they licensed if your area requires it?
– Can they give you real references, not just their cousin Steve?
But here’s the thing… every decent company checks these boxes. It’s like saying a restaurant has plates. Important? Yes. Enough to make a decision? Nope.
## **The Real Questions You Should Be Asking**
Here’s what actually matters:
**How do they handle communication?**
If they take 3 days to return your initial call, guess how long they’ll take when there’s an actual problem. A good company gets back to you same day, maybe next morning at the latest.
**Do they show up when they say they will?**
Sounds basic but you’d be surprised. Ask them straight up – “what happens if you can’t make it?” The good ones have a system. They’ll text you, call you, whatever. They don’t just… not show up.
**What’s their actual experience with YOUR type of lawn?**
Not all grass is created equal. Buffalo grass isn’t couch grass isn’t kikuyu. If they can’t tell you specifically how they handle your lawn type, that’s a red flag.
## **The Price Thing (Let’s Be Real About It)**
Cheapest isn’t best. Most expensive isn’t best either.
Here’s my rule: get three quotes. Throw out the highest and lowest. The one in the middle? That’s probably your sweet spot. But also…
– Ask what’s included. Some companies charge extra for edging. Others include it
– Find out if they have regular service discounts
– Check if they’ll match a competitor’s price (many will)
## **Red Flags That Should Make You Run**
– They want full payment upfront for ongoing service
– They can’t (or won’t) show you their insurance
– Their equipment looks like it hasn’t been maintained since 1987
– They pressure you to sign a long contract immediately
– Zero online presence or reviews (it’s 2024, come on)
## **The Secret Nobody Talks About**
You know what really matters? Whether they actually care about your lawn or if they’re just trying to mow and go.
The best lawn care people? They’ll stop and tell you “hey, noticed you’ve got some grubs starting over here” or “that section’s looking a bit dry, might want to adjust your sprinklers.”
They’re not just cutting grass. They’re taking care of your property.
## **How To Actually Make The Decision**
Okay so you’ve got your shortlist. Here’s what you do:
1. **Call them.** Not email. Call. See how they handle it
2. **Ask for a quote IN PERSON.** Any company that quotes sight unseen is guessing
3. **Watch how they assess your property.** Do they actually look at problem areas or just glance around?
4. **Trust your gut.** Seriously. If something feels off, it probably is
## **One Last Thing…**
Start with a one-off service if you’re unsure. It’s like a test drive. See how they work, how they communicate, whether they do what they promised. Then you can commit to regular service.
And hey – if you’re in Sydney and looking for someone reliable? Give the local guys a shot. Sometimes the best lawn care isn’t from the biggest company with the flashiest trucks. It’s from the local professional who actually knows your neighborhood, understands the local conditions, and has their reputation on the line.
Just saying.
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*Remember: Your lawn is part of your home. Choose someone who treats it that way.*