Free Landscaping Contract Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Landscaping Contract

Filling out the landscaping contract form is a crucial step in establishing a clear and professional agreement between you and Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance, LLC. This document specifies the terms of lawn maintenance and other landscaping services, ensuring both parties understand their responsibilities, costs involved, and the schedule of services. Completing the form accurately helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that your property’s landscaping needs are met to your satisfaction. Follow these steps carefully to complete the form.

1. Begin by reviewing the entire form to understand the services offered and the information required.
2. In section "I. INITIAL CLEAN UP," fill in the labor and hauling hours needed for your property, if applicable, and the agreed-upon fee for this one-time cleanup service. Initial the box to the right to confirm your agreement.
3. For section "II. INITIAL SPRINKLER & DRIP SYSTEM INSPECTION," enter the estimated hours and supplies needed for the inspection and initial the box next to your entry to signify your agreement with the assessment.
4. In the "III. SERVICE AGREEMENT" section, choose the frequency of services (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or one-time clean up) by checking the corresponding box and fill in the required hours and any additional labor charges.
5. Indicate the travel time zone, which is numbered from 1 to 5, based on the location of the service address.
6. Under "PAYMENT," enter the total fee for the selected services and your preference for billing (per man-hour or per service). Then, familiarize yourself with the payment terms and due dates.
7. Fill in specifics for lawn maintenance, tree and shrubs care, planter beds, decomposed granite and rock areas, walkways, and driveways as per your agreement with the contractor in the respective sections of the form.
8. Enter the monthly dumping fee agreed upon for regular trimmings removal.
9. Specify your fertilization options for various plants and turf as applicable.
10. For "IRRIGATION," note any pre-approved expenses for irrigation repairs and the initial whenever you agree to terms regarding the service call charges and materials.
11. Under "DEPOSIT," fill in the amount of deposit paid, the date received, and the check number.
12. In the "CANCELLATION" and "TEMPORARY HOLD" sections, understand the terms for cancelling the agreement or putting services on hold.
13. Acknowledge the "WINDOW, ART & STATUARY DISCLAIMER" by initialing, which limits the liability of Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance for damages during service.
14. In section "V. PROPERTY INFORMATION," provide the service and billing addresses, names, contact information, and your social security number. Ensure you print your name clearly where indicated.
15. Finalize the form by signing and dating at the bottom to signify your acceptance of all terms and conditions outlined in the agreement.

Once completed, review the form for accuracy and completeness. Then, submit the document to Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance, LLC, either by fax, email, or hand delivery, following their preferred submission guidelines. This step initiates the agreement and schedules your landscaping services according to the terms outlined in the contract.

What is the initial clean-up fee, and when is it paid?

The initial clean-up fee is necessary to bring the property up to an adequate level before any regular service begins. This cost is subject to prior discussion and approval and includes labor and hauling, with a stated fee of $140.00 per full truck load, with additional fees applicable for heavy loads. The clean-up fees must be paid in full upon completion of the service, per the specified invoice.

How is the initial sprinkler and drip system inspection charged?

All properties will undergo an initial inspection of the sprinkler and drip systems at a rate of $45.00, which covers the first 15 minutes of labor. Any labor beyond this is billed at $60.00 per hour. Supplies needed for any repairs will be billed additionally. This inspection ensures that the irrigation system is functioning properly before the commencement of regular maintenance services.

Can you cancel the landscaping maintenance agreement? If so, how?

Yes, the landscaping maintenance agreement can be canceled at any time by either party, provided written notification is given. The termination of services becomes effective immediately upon receipt of this notice.

What happens if a window, art, or statuary is damaged during service?

If there is damage to windows, art, or statuary during a service, Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance will compensate for the damage up to $150.00 per occurrence for weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly maintenance customers. However, window damage and related expenses from one-time clean-ups are the sole responsibility of the customer.

Are there any additional charges for fertilization or irrigation services?

Yes, additional charges apply for both fertilization and irrigation services outside of the general maintenance agreement. Fertilization of specific plants, including queen palms, citrus, roses, and others, will incur extra charges for materials such as fertilizers and soil conditioners. Similarly, any service calls related to irrigation are subject to a $45.00 service call fee plus $60.00 per man-hour, with materials billed separately. Minor adjustments may be made at no extra charge, but more significant repairs will be additionally charged with prior approval.

Filling out a landscaping contract form requires attention to detail, yet it's easy to make mistakes. One common error is not thoroughly reading and understanding each section before initialing or signing. This contract involves multiple sections, each with its implications for the services to be received and the payments to be made. Neglecting to read each part carefully can lead to unexpected obligations or misunderstandings about the scope of work and the cost.

Another mistake is failing to specify the details of the initial cleanup and maintenance services. The contract outlines fees for cleanups based on truckload and additional fees for heavy loads. If the property requires significant initial work, not estimating the required labor and hauling properly can lead to unanticipated costs. Likewise, the maintenance agreement section allows for weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly services with minimum charges. Not clearly specifying the frequency and expected hours of service could result in services either inadequate for the property’s needs or more costly than anticipated.

A further error involves the sprinkler and drip system inspection segment. Customers sometimes overlook this essential step, forgetting to initial their understanding of these charges. This oversight can result in unexpected fees for the inspection and any necessary repairs to ensure the irrigation system functions correctly before regular maintenance begins.

Incorrect or incomplete information provided in the property and billing address sections is also a typical mistake. Accurate addresses ensure that service and billing are directed to the right locations. Any mistake here can lead to service delays or billing issues. Moreover, providing outdated or incorrect contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, can hinder communication about service schedules, changes, and billing inquiries.

Not carefully considering the terms related to additional services and cancellation policies can lead to situations where customers are unaware of their rights and obligations regarding terminating the service or the costs associated with extra tasks not included in the basic maintenance plan. This contract specifies charges for various additional services, including tree pruning for trees over ten feet and specific garden bed maintenance requirements. Overlooking these details can result in unexpected charges.

People also frequently miss the significance of the deposit requirement and the cancellation terms. The deposit is refundable under certain conditions, and understanding these conditions is crucial for financial planning. The cancellation policy outlined needs to be understood to avoid any surprises if the service needs to be terminated.

Lastly, not accounting for the temporary hold or service disruption fees can catch a customer off guard. If services are paused, there might be additional charges to restart them under the original contract terms. Awareness and planning regarding this potential fee can help manage costs effectively.

When drafting a Landscaping Contract, several other documents and forms are often utilized to ensure a comprehensive and legally binding arrangement. These additional forms support the landscaping agreement by providing clarity, setting expectations, and safeguarding both the service provider and the client. Details such as scope of work, payment terms, and conditions are made clear, bolstering the contractual relationship.

• Scope of Work: This document outlines the specific landscaping services to be provided, materials needed, and the timeframe for the project. It ensures both parties agree on the work to be done, helping to prevent misunderstandings.
• Change Order Form: Changes to the original scope of work may be necessary as the project progresses. This form documents any alterations to the services or materials and may include adjustments to costs and deadlines.
• Service Schedule: This details the frequency of maintenance or service visits (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) and specifies the dates and times landscaping services will be performed, allowing for better planning and coordination.
• Payment Agreement Form: This outlines the payment terms, including amounts, due dates, and acceptable payment methods. It may also detail late payment penalties and any deposit requirements.
• Property Access Authorization: Grants the landscaping company permission to enter the property for the purpose of providing the agreed-upon services, specifying any restrictions or requirements for accessing the property.
• Damage Waiver and Liability Form: This form releases the landscaping company from liability for certain types of damage that might occur during the project, and may also clarify insurance coverage and responsibilities for damages.
• Satisfaction Survey: Though not a legal document, this form is useful for gathering client feedback about the landscaping services provided. This information can be vital for improving service quality and maintaining good customer relationships.

Incorporating these forms and documents alongside the main Landscaping Contract provides a robust framework that supports clear communication, mutual understanding, and legal protection for all parties involved. Together, they form the foundation of a successful landscaping project and ongoing service arrangement.

A Construction Contract is closely related to a Landscaping Contract as both are agreements for services to be performed on a property. Both types of contracts outline the scope of work, project timelines, costs, and payment schedules. They also include clauses on liability and damages, detailing how unforeseen events or damages to the property will be handled. These agreements are essential for setting clear expectations between the service provider and the property owner, ensuring both parties are protected throughout the process.

Service Level Agreements (SLAs) share similarities with Landscaping Contracts by specifying the standards of service to be delivered. SLAs typically detail the quality, availability, and responsibilities of service providers, similar to how a Landscaping Contract outlines maintenance routines, schedules, and standards. Both documents include remedies and penalties for service failures, establishing accountability and ensuring that the agreed-upon level of service is maintained.

Employment Contracts are akin to Landscaping Contracts in that they formalize the relationship between parties, outlining roles, responsibilities, and compensation. In a Landscaping Contract, the terms of employment for workers, including hours of work, pay rate, and job duties, can be specified, similar to how an Employment Contract would for any industry. Both types of contracts ensure understanding and agreement on what is expected from each party, enhancing productivity and satisfaction.

Maintenance Agreements, much like Landscaping Contracts, are designed to ensure regular upkeep and service. These agreements lay out the frequency of maintenance, specific services to be performed, and the fees involved, ensuring that properties or assets are kept in optimal condition. Both Maintenance and Landscaping Contracts highlight the importance of preventative care to avoid significant issues down the line, providing peace of mind and possibly saving money for the property owners.

A Lease Agreement incorporates elements similar to those found in Landscaping Contracts, especially when it includes clauses on property maintenance and upkeep. Lease Agreements specify tenant and landlord responsibilities concerning the property, akin to how Landscaping Contracts outline the duties of the landscaping service and the expectations from the property owner. Both documents serve to protect the interests of the involved parties, ensuring that properties are maintained according to agreed-upon standards.

A Vendor Agreement is relevantly similar to a Landscaping Contract as it also outlines the terms and conditions under which services or goods will be provided. Both agreements detail the scope of work, pricing, and delivery schedules, ensuring that all parties have clear expectations. Vendor Agreements, like Landscaping Contracts, include clauses on dispute resolution and termination, safeguarding relationships and clarifying the course of action if agreements cannot be fulfilled as initially planned.

Finally, a Consulting Agreement, while typically more focused on professional advice and expertise, parallels a Landscaping Contract in its structure and purpose. Both identify the parties involved, specify the services to be provided, outline compensation, and include confidentiality clauses along with termination conditions. These contracts ensure that the consultant or landscaping service delivers the promised work within the agreed timeframe and budget, providing a legal framework for the professional relationship.

When filling out a Landscaping Contract form, such as the one provided by GOODMAN’S Landscape Maintenance, it’s crucial to approach this task with detail and precision to ensure that all expectations are set and agreed upon from the start. Here are some do’s and don'ts to consider:

• Read every section thoroughly before signing anything. Understanding each part of the agreement prevents misunderstandings later.
• Initial each section as required. This action confirms that you’ve reviewed and acknowledged the terms related to clean-ups, sprinkler inspections, and service agreements.
• Confirm the service frequency that fits your needs, whether it be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, and make sure it’s accurately recorded in the contract.
• Verify the rates for regular maintenance as well as additional services to ensure they match your budget and expectations.
• Discuss any specific instructions or exceptions you have regarding lawn care, tree services, or other maintenance aspects and ensure they are clearly noted in the contract.
• Clarify the terms regarding window, art, and statuary damages. Understand your responsibilities and the protections provided by the landscaper.

• Skip reviewing the deposit and cancellation policy. Knowing how much you need to pay upfront and how to cancel the service if necessary is crucial.
• Ignore the payment due dates and service charges for late payments. Mark your calendar with these dates to avoid unnecessary fees.
• Overlook the details about additional charges for services like fertilization, irrigation repairs, and clean-up costs. These can add up quickly.
• Forget to check the contact information for accuracy. This ensures that you receive invoices and communication without delay.
• Assume anything not written in the contract. Verbal agreements should be included in the contract as written statements to avoid disputes.
• Failing to secure a completed copy of the contract for your records. Having a signed contract on hand is essential for reference and in case issues arise.

When it comes to landscaping contracts, there's often a cloud of misunderstanding that surrounds their content and implications. Here are seven common misconceptions about these agreements:

• Only large projects need a landscaping contract. Even small landscaping jobs can benefit from a contract. It provides a clear outline of the work to be done, the costs involved, and the expectations from both parties, irrespective of the project size.

• All landscaping contracts are similar. While many contracts contain standard clauses, the specifics can vary greatly depending on the scope of the project, the services being provided, and the preferences of the homeowner and the contractor. Customization reflects the unique aspects of each job.

• There's no room for negotiation in a landscaping contract. Contracts are not set in stone. Before signing, parties should discuss any concerns and negotiate terms that feel fair to both. This can include payment schedules, the scope of work, and how to handle any necessary changes or unforeseen circumstances.

• A good verbal agreement is as valid as a written contract. While verbal agreements can be legally binding, proving the terms of the arrangement can be challenging if disputes arise. A written contract offers a tangible record of what was agreed, providing protection and clarity for both the landscaper and the client.

• The landscaping contract is only beneficial for the landscaping company. A well-crafted contract is mutually beneficial. It provides the contractor with a clear directive and scope, while giving the homeowner an understanding of what services will be delivered, how alterations are handled, and the agreed cost.

• Contracts contain too much legal jargon to understand. While contracts are legal documents, they should be written in clear, accessible language. Both parties should understand all terms outlined in the document. Any confusion over the contract language should be clarified before signing.

• If something isn't in the contract, it can be easily added later without a problem. Changes to the original contract should be formally documented through amendments. Making changes without written agreement can lead to misunderstandings or disputes. It's crucial to document all changes and have both parties agree to them in writing.

Understanding these misconceptions can lead to a more transparent and productive relationship between homeowners and landscaping professionals, ensuring that both parties' interests are well-protected and the project meets mutual expectations.

When filling out and using a Landscaping Contract form, particularly one for residential lawn maintenance like the example provided by Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance LLC, it's important to keep several key points in mind to ensure clarity, compliance, and mutual satisfaction between the landscaping service provider and the homeowner. Understanding these key aspects can help in creating a smooth working relationship and avoiding common pitfalls.

• Initial Cleanup and Inspection: An initial cleanup and sprinkler/drip system inspection are often necessary before regular service can commence. These services are charged separately from regular maintenance, emphasizing the need for clear discussion and agreement on these preliminary tasks and their costs.
• Service Agreement Options: Clearly understand the frequency and scope of maintenance services offered (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) and their minimum charges. This ensures that expectations are properly set regarding both the extent of services provided and the corresponding fees.
• Payment Terms: Payment terms, including service fees, billing cycles, and due dates for payments, are crucial. Noting any late fees or charges for overdue payments can help in maintaining timely payments and good relations.
• Additional Charges: Be aware of circumstances that might incur additional charges, such as extra labor, travel time, or specific gardening supplies. Knowing these can help in budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses.
• Special Services and Fees: Some services, like tree service for trees over ten feet, or specific landscaping enhancements, are not included in the standard service agreement and require separate negotiation and payment. It’s important to address these needs upfront.
• Damage and Liability: The contract should outline responsibility for any damages that occur during the landscaping work, including windows, art, and statuary, with clear terms about liability limits and customer responsibilities.
• Cancellation and Modification: Understanding the process for cancelling or modifying the service agreement is important. This includes any notices required, the process for temporary holds, and how to address changes in the scope of work.

Lastly, ensuring all agreements and approvals are documented in writing helps protect both parties and provides a clear reference if any disputes arise. Both the landscaping company and the homeowner should keep signed copies of the contract for their records.