Tips for Property Managers Looking for a Reliable Landscaping Company

Commercial property managers juggle many responsibilities, from building maintenance to keeping tenants happy. Caring for landscaping is part of the checklist. Every property tells a story the moment a visitor steps onto the grounds. Well-tended lawns, healthy plants and polished outdoor spaces create an unforgettable first impression. A trusted landscaping company is key to the narrative. 

Choosing a provider starts with knowing what qualities define true reliability. This guide shares commercial property landscaping tips when searching for a vendor. Making an informed choice lets your commercial landscape shine in every season.  

Beyond Curb Appeal: Your Landscape Partner’s True Role

A commercial landscaping company does more than cut grass. They are a strategic property management partner. The right team enhances property value by creating inviting outdoor spaces.

Thoughtful landscaping can also encourage client retention by showing consistent care. Beyond beauty, professional crews create a safer environment. They manage hazards like ice, debris or diseased trees.

Landscape management is a long-term investment in property care. It’s a continued commitment to year-round landscaping health.

How to Choose a Commercial Landscaping Company

Evaluating commercial landscaping vendors takes research and careful thought. Use this property manager landscaping checklist to help you find the perfect partner.

1. Verify Credentials

Before comparing services, start with the basics. A landscaping company’s licensing, insurance and certifications reveal its professionalism and accountability:

• Licensing and certifications: Some regions require landscapers to hold a state license. Check the requirements in your area. For example, in Michigan, landscapers don’t carry state licenses. They must have a pesticide application certification from the Michigan Department of Agriculture.
• Insurance: A reputable company will show proof of insurance on request. They should have general liability and workers’ compensation coverage at a minimum.
• Training: Look for a provider who invests in its people. A trained team understands the right techniques and tools to care for your landscape. Ongoing education ensures they follow industry best practices and safety standards. 

2. Review Experience

Choose a vendor with a proven expertise serving properties like yours. Healthcare facilities, retail center or multifamily complexes have unique demands. You need a provider familiar with these specific needs.

Check the company’s number of years in business. An established provider is more likely to achieve your goals than a new enterprise.

3. Assess Service Capabilities

Opt for a team that offers a full range of services to meet your landscaping needs. Partnering with a well-rounded company frees you from dealing with many providers. A one-stop supplier should offer the following:

• Landscape management: Holistic landscape care includes fertilization, weed control, pruning and mulch installation. Some vendors plant seasonal flower displays to enhance your grounds.
• Lawn maintenance: A lush lawn creates a welcoming first impression. Lawn care is more than regular mowing. Experienced providers will offer services like irrigation, soil pH monitoring and lawn aeration. 
• Plant care: True landscaping professionals understand how to make plants flourish. They use treatments, pruning and fertilizer to keep plants healthy throughout the year. This service may include the safe removal of hazardous trees.
• Irrigation: Knowing the right time and amount of water plants need is a science. Find a team that delivers comprehensive irrigation services. System set up, preventive maintenance and repairs improve performance while saving water. 
• Snow and ice management: This critical service prevents safety hazards or property damage in winter. Find a landscaping company familiar with local conditions. Michigan property managers need a team to handle the state’s unpredictable weather. Snow plowing, ice clearing and salting keep your property accessible in the chilly season.
• Landscape construction: True professionals enhance, rather than simply maintain, outdoor spaces. Landscape construction services include hardscaping, softscaping and drainage design.

4. Understand Scalability

Property managers overseeing many sites need a landscaping company to handle the load. A landscaping company should grow with your portfolio. Scalable partners adjust crew sizes, resources and schedules to meet your demands. Look for a team that treats each property as unique while maintaining consistent quality. Agile teams can adapt to changes and anticipate future needs.

5. Scrutinize Communication and Processes

Clear communication is critical in property management. Your chosen provider should have systems that make updates and collaboration effortless. A dedicated account manager simplifies communication. Dealing with one person ensures accountability and quick problem resolution. Do they include reporting? Strong partners will provide site photos, maintenance plans and regular service updates. 

6. Ask About Sustainability Practices

Modern green spaces should look good and do good. Responsible landscaping providers integrate sustainability into their services. They should offer water-smart irrigation, native plant choices and responsible material use. 

Eco-friendly practices cut costs while protecting the environment. A green-minded partner helps your property stay vibrant while meeting corporate responsibility standards. Find out about their approach to sustainability.

7. Check Reviews and References

A polished proposal only tells part of the story. Real insight comes from past clients. Reviews reveal patterns in communication, reliability and results that sales pitches lack. Look for consistency across platforms — customer-focused companies earn praise that repeats itself.

Ask property managers who work with the provider about their experience. They can give you clarity on service quality. A reliable landscaping business will be happy to share references. Their track record should speak louder than their brochure.

8. Set Budget Expectations

Collaborate with a landscaping company that meets your financial realities. Trusted professionals will provide a fair, transparent estimate tailored to your budget. They should balance cost-effective solutions with quality. Review all your bids with budgetary considerations combined with work expectations. 

Pro tip: Sometimes the low bidder is low for a reason. 

Align budget goals at the outset. That way, you receive consistent, sustainable service that contributes ongoing value. 

9. Narrow Down Your Search

After researching different landscaping providers, create a shortlist. Contact these companies for quotes, providing them with detailed information on your requirements. These estimates should include a service breakdown with clear pricing. Compare the quotes to find the best fit. Then, schedule consultations with the shortlisted vendors. 

Here are some ideas of questions to ask during your consultation:

• How long have you been in business?
• Can you provide client testimonials and a portfolio of past projects?
• Are you able to handle large-scale commercial properties or multiple locations?
• Do you incorporate eco-friendly practices?
• How often do you service properties?
• What services do you include in seasonal maintenance?
• Are you fully licensed and insured?
• Do you offer emergency services, such as storm response?

Get Started With a Team Built for Property Managers

A reliable landscaping company earns your trust. The ideal partner feels like an extension of your property management team. They operate with integrity, delivering clear communication, custom solutions and dependable results.

DJ’s Landscape Management lives by these principles. For over 30 years, we’ve helped Michigan property managers achieve their landscaping goals. Our year-round services transform outdoor spaces. From summer irrigation to winter ice removal, we care for your property in all four seasons. 

With locations across Southern Michigan, there’s a DJ’s on your doorstep. Our experts are community members who deliver trusted results based on local knowledge. We serve small- and large-scale needs with professionalism. 

Let us create a tailored landscaping plan that exceeds your expectations. Get started on a healthier, more vibrant commercial landscape — connect with us today.