Landscaping Contracts for Property Managers

A Guide to Landscaping Contracts and Maintenance Agreements

For property managers, landscaping is more than just aesthetics—it’s a reflection of your property’s value and professionalism. A well-maintained exterior can attract tenants, impress visitors, and even increase property value. But achieving that level of care requires more than occasional mowing; it starts with a clear, comprehensive landscaping contract.

What Is a Landscaping Contract and Why Is It Important?

A landscaping contract is a formal agreement between a property manager and a landscaping provider that defines the services, timelines, and costs associated with maintaining outdoor spaces. These agreements are essential because they set expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and help you manage budgets effectively. Without a detailed contract, you risk inconsistent service, surprise costs, and unhappy tenants.

Read more to find out the key elements that should be included in a strong landscaping agreement.

1. Scope of Work: What’s Included?

The scope of work is the backbone of your contract. It specifies exactly what services will be provided and how often. Typical inclusions are:

Mowing and Edging: Regular upkeep of turf areas for a neat appearance.

Turf Care Programs: Fertilization, aeration, and pest control to keep grass healthy.

Irrigation Service: Seasonal start-up, monitoring, and winterization.

Mulch Bed Maintenance: Weed control, edging, and fresh mulch installation.

Tree and Shrub Care: Pruning, disease prevention, and seasonal treatments.

Seasonal Enhancements: Flowers, décor, and color installations for curb appeal.

Fall and Winter Services: Leaf removal, snow and ice management, and dormant pruning.
Lot Sweeping: Specialized trucks that sweep parking lots and curb lines, along with portering.

A detailed scope ensures you’re comparing proposals “apples to apples” when reviewing bids. For example, one provider might include 3 pruning visits per year, while another offers only one— these differences matter.

2. Billing Options:
How Will You Pay?

Landscaping contracts typically offer three different billing structures:

Fixed Monthly Billing: A consistent monthly fee that simplifies budgeting and cash flow.

End-of-Month Billing: One consolidated invoice for all services performed during the month.

Per-Service Billing: Pay for each service as it’s completed, offering transparency but requiring more administrative work.

Choosing the right billing method depends on your accounting preferences and need for predictability.

3. Contract Length and Terms: How Long?

Most commercial landscaping agreements span one to three years, often with auto-renewal clauses and modest annual rate increases (commonly around 2%).

Pay attention to cancellation terms—30, 60, or 90-day notice periods are standard. These details protect both parties and allow for smooth transitions if changes are needed.

4. Seasonal Service Planning: When?

Landscaping needs evolve throughout the year:

Spring: Kick off the growing season with clean-ups, mulch installation, and irrigation start-up.

Summer: Maintain curb appeal with mowing, irrigation monitoring, and flower care.

Fall: Prepare for dormancy with leaf removal, aeration, overseeding, and irrigation shutdown.

Winter: Focus on safety with snow and ice management, plus holiday décor and dormant pruning.

The Big Picture: Why Contracts Matter

A well-structured landscaping contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s peace of mind. It guarantees accountability, consistency, and quality, while helping you manage costs and avoid surprises. For property managers juggling multiple priorities, a clear agreement means one less thing to worry about.

Ready to Streamline Your Landscaping Management?

If you’re a property manager looking for reliable, professional landscaping services, EMI can help. Our team specializes in creating customized maintenance plans that fit your property’s needs and budget. Contact EMI today to learn how we can keep your property looking exceptional year-round.