As a commercial property manager, you know that making a landscape budget, and then maintaining it, are two of the most important things you do. You also know, however, that unexpected events and emergencies can arise at any time that can play havoc with your budget. Consequently, the more planning you do initially, the better chance you have of creating a realistic landscape budget that not only meets your specific needs, but also includes a little extra just in case you find yourself needing unexpected services.
Keep in mind that when creating a landscaping for commercial property budget, you’re actually dealing with two types of budgeting: operational and capital.
Your operational costs include such recurring expenses as:
• Mowing
• Trimming
• Edging
• Blowing
• Irrigation inspection
Conversely, your capital costs include such one-time fixes or enhancements as:
• Drainage and storm management
• Irrigation improvements or modifications
• Turf conversion
• Planting of shrubs and blooming flowers
• Bed renovation
Effective landscaping for commercial property requires considerable thought. Obviously, weekly or biweekly mowing isn’t enough. You need to think long-term. For instance, ask yourself the following questions:
• What general maintenance or improvements need to be done this year?
• What enhancements, upgrades or major repairs can wait until next year?
• Which projects will require more than one year to complete?
In other words, prioritize your landscaping needs and desires. And don’t forget that your property’s entrances are the first things your customers or tenants see. Addressing these areas first not only makes good budgeting sense, but also ensures that your property presents the best possible first impression.
As you continue the budgeting process, try your best to determine the following:
• What landscaping services do you need and want?
• How many applications will these services take?
• How many visits will your landscaping contractor need to make?
The more specific you can be, the better and more accurate estimate your contractor will be able to provide you.
Then, as stated, be sure to add in an amount for unexpected necessary services your contractor may need to make.
It goes without saying that commercial property landscaping requires the services of a professional landscaping company. This is not a DIY project. Be sure to ask prospective contractors plenty of questions, including the following:
• Are your crews educated and trained?
• Do they hold industry certifications?
• Are they legal workers?
• Do you conduct employee background checks?
• Do you conduct random employee drug testing?
• What is your company’s safety record?
• How long have you been in business?
• What regional or national awards have you won?
You’ll also want to get a good feeling about the company. Do its representatives appear to actually care about your projects, not just about getting another commercial contract?
At Monarch Landscaping, we’ve been developing landscape partnerships with our commercial customers since 1969. Our mission is to simplify your life with timely delivery on your scope of work, clear consistent communications and proactive property improvement recommendations.
Whatever type of commercial property you manage, be it an apartment complex, shopping center, HOA, or an office building or park, we are dedicated to providing you with the landscaping services you need, when you need them and on budget. Contact us today. We’re here to answer all your questions and explain how Monarch Landscaping can solve all your commercial landscaping problems and provide you with added property value.
