The Lowest Bid Isn’t Always the Right Bid

Unlike many of the companies that exist today, especially those big box landscapers, we like our clients to be informed. We do not have an army of staff to hold you hostage on a customer service line once we have gone back on our word or performed poor work. At the end of the day, we want you to know exactly what you are getting from OakLawn, and this is why we want you to know what we know. Industry secrets that other landscaping companies would prefer be kept quiet, especially surrounding the bidding process. This is when competing maintenance providers submit their proposals for you to select from, and entrust your property to. Oftentimes price is a big factor and we understand that, but here are a few reasons why the lowest bid is not always the right bid. 

Quality is Everything

Let us start with the most important reason why a low bid does not mean it is a good bid. At the end of the day, your commercial property exists to drive revenue. Whether it be new residents of an apartment complex or prospective tenants of an office building, you need to motivate these people to spend their money with you. The quality of the landscape is a huge factor in this, and nobody will care how much you pay for your landscaping if the quality is poor. Ensure a company does good work by utilizing its gallery online, reviews, and references to other successful projects. If they do not have evidence of this, there should not be a number low enough for you to accept.

Clear Contracts and Insurance

Any reputable landscaping company should be able to provide you with all of the details for your property, well laid out in a legal document prepared by their team. If this team does not exist, or comes forward with a sketchy contract and vague promises, then you should begin to be suspicious. You should also make sure through this process that their insurance is in order, as you never want to be liable for their level of safety on the job site. 

Size of Company and Scope of Work

One thing that you must match up as the property manager or owner is the capability of the company in question compared to the needs of your landscape. For a large commercial property with expansive lawns and endless plant beds, you will need a commercial landscaping company with a large staff and commercial-grade equipment to be efficient. Obviously, a local mom-and-pop might not have the resources, but might still try and punch above their weight class. This can end badly for both parties and should be discovered during due diligence. 

Commitment to Communication

We talk about this all the time not to beat on a dead horse, but because it is so essential. Your landscaper needs to commit a dedicated account manager to your property. This should be your primary point of contact for any questions or concerns you might have. Additionally, there should be other methods of communication provided to you, including web forms, email, and in-office staff to return calls.

Your landscaping is the first thing noticed by your visitors, friends, and customers. Let OakLawn Landscaping ensure that your first impressions are top-notch and have your guests in awe before they even reach the door. Visit our website, or contact us today at (301) 854-0684 for any of your landscaping needs, commercial or residential.