Choosing a landscape maintenance company isn’t just about who can mow your lawn — it’s about finding a long-term partner who understands your property, protects your investment, and helps your landscape thrive year after year.
For many homeowners in Howard County, landscape maintenance contracts renew in Q1, which makes winter the smartest time to evaluate your current provider or explore better options. The right decision now means a smoother spring, fewer surprises, and a landscape you’re proud of.
Before you sign your next contract, ask these essential questions.
1. Are They a Full-Service Landscape Company — or Just Lawn Care?
Not all landscape companies are created equal.
Some providers focus on basic “mow-and-go” services. Others offer comprehensive landscape maintenance designed to care for your entire property.
A full-service landscape maintenance company should provide:
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Lawn mowing and edging
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Shrub and tree pruning
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Fertilization and turf programs
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Seasonal cleanups and leaf removal
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Mulching, bed edging, and weeding
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Irrigation system checks
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Landscape lighting maintenance
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Snow and storm response
Why this matters:
Working with one full-service provider ensures consistency, accountability, and better long-term results — instead of juggling multiple contractors.
At Absolute Landscapes, clients have one provider and a dedicated account manager, simplifying communication and care.
2. Do They Have Experience With Properties Like Yours?
Landscape maintenance needs vary widely depending on the property.
Ask whether the company has experience with:
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Large residential estates
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Luxury homes
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HOA-managed communities
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Complex landscapes with irrigation, lighting, or hardscaping
A professional company should be able to show real project examples and explain how they adapt maintenance plans for different property types.
Tip: Ask for photos, references, or case studies from homes similar to yours.
3. Are They Licensed, Insured, and Professionally Certified?
This is non-negotiable.
A reputable landscape maintenance company should carry:
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Proper state and local licensing
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Full liability and workers’ compensation insurance
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Certified professionals and licensed applicators
Industry credentials (such as NALP membership or pesticide certifications) signal professionalism, safety, and long-term reliability.
4. What’s Actually Included in the Maintenance Contract?
A clear, detailed contract protects both you and the company.
Your landscape maintenance agreement should clearly outline:
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Mowing frequency
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Seasonal cleanups
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Mulching services (bed cleanup, edging, mulch installation, and weeding)
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Turf fertilization and treatment schedules
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Irrigation inspections
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Leaf removal
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Snow and storm response
⚠️ Red flag: Vague terms like “as needed” often lead to unmet expectations.
If a service is required yearly, it should be explicitly included in the maintenance plan.
5. How Do They Communicate With Homeowners?
Strong communication is one of the biggest differences between average and exceptional landscape companies.
Ask:
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Will I have a dedicated account manager or point of contact?
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How are service updates shared?
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How quickly are concerns addressed?
Homeowners should never feel unsure about what’s happening on their property.
At Absolute Landscapes, clients work with dedicated account managers who provide proactive communication and clear oversight.
6. Can They Improve My Landscape Over Time — Not Just Maintain It?
Great landscape maintenance does more than preserve — it enhances.
Ask whether the company offers:
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Design-build upgrades
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Drainage solutions
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Landscape lighting enhancements
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Hardscaping improvements
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Planting refreshes and renovations
Choosing one company that can maintain, improve, and evolve your landscape saves time, money, and stress.
7. What Do Their Clients Say?
Online reviews and testimonials offer powerful insight into reliability and service quality.
Before hiring:
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Check Google reviews
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Read testimonials
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Ask for referrals
Look for patterns — responsiveness, professionalism, consistency, and long-term client relationships matter more than one-off praise.
Why Homeowners in Howard County Choose Absolute Landscapes
Absolute Landscapes is trusted by homeowners throughout Howard County and surrounding areas because we offer:
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20+ years of experience
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Certified, licensed, and insured professionals
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Dedicated account managers
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Full-service, year-round landscape maintenance
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Design-build expertise for long-term property improvement
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Proven results across residential and estate properties
We don’t just maintain landscapes — we protect and enhance them.
Plan Ahead for a Better Landscape in Spring
The best time to evaluate your landscape maintenance provider is before contracts renew in Q1 — not when spring is already here.
Whether you’re switching providers or planning ahead, our team can help you build a maintenance plan that fits your property and expectations.
👉 Schedule a winter consultation or request a custom landscape maintenance proposal today.
Work with professionals who treat your landscape like a long-term investment.