Grounds maintenance workers held more than 1.5 million jobs in 2008,
according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook
Handbook, 2010-11 Edition. The outlook looks even better as the industry
expected a growth rate of 18 percent between 2008 to 2010. The timing
could be right for you to start your own landscaping business. There are
some clear cut benefits as well. You can start with limited financial
resources and enjoy the outdoors while you work. To step on greener
ground from amongst the rest, take note of some helpful tips.
Step 1
Develop a business plan and use it as a guide to realizing your long-term vision. Limit your initial landscaping services to what you do best, whether it is mowing lawns, mulching leaves, removing them or specializing in tree trimming services. As your business grows, you may want to hire sales teams and additional grounds maintenance workers. Your strategy can be limitless in terms of profitability and geographical expansion.Step 2
Set competitive pricing for your offerings. According to The-Lawn-Advisor.com, the average price for cutting a half-acre lawn was between $20 and $40. In addition, a minimum of $75 is charged for trimming a 30-foot tree, such as a Dogwood, but it could be higher than $400, according to Costhelper.com.Call local landscaping businesses to get an idea of fair market pricing for your services. Take into account your experience and highlight all of the other benefits to your customers to justify pricing. Offer new customers discounts, but also offer special deals for your existing customers.
Step 3
Register your business with the local secretary of state office. While there, find out what other agencies you need to file with in your area. You may need to collect taxes on any associated lawn care products that you decide to sell along with your services. Each state or city agency may have additional and different laws to follow.Step 4
Become a member of a local trusted business organization.
Memberships with the Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau will
help you to earn trust among your customers. Subscribe to an
industry-based organization so you can stay alerted of trends and law
policies that affect your industry.Step 5
Purchase business liability and workers compensation insurance so you can better concentrate on conducting your business. If you belong to an industry-based organization, you may be able to get discounted business insurance through the association or at minimum, advice on the best suitable resources. Ensure that employees have necessary training to minimize on the job accidents.Step 6
Obtain certification as a Certified Treecare Safety Professional if you plan to offer tree trimming services. The Tree Care Industry Association provides tree care professionals with the American National Standards Institute A300 standards for tree care. Accreditation lets your potential and current customers know that you follow industry-set guidelines. This fact can also help you promote your business.
Things Needed
Warning
- You can lose a good customer through no
fault of your own if that particular homeowner relocates or that
specific commercial establishment closes down or changes ownership.
Therefore, do not underestimate the value of a well-written business
plan with a growth strategy. The more repeat and new customers your
landscaping businesses has, the better chance of its long-term survival.
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