One of the main advantages of commercial robotic lawn mowers is their ability to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. Unlike traditional mowers that require a human operator, these autonomous machines can work around the clock, ensuring that the job is done quickly and without interruption. This can be particularly useful for businesses that need to maintain large areas, such as golf courses, sports fields, or public parks, where downtime can be costly.

Another advantage of commercial robotic lawn mowers is their ability to navigate complex terrain and obstacles. With advanced sensors and mapping technology, these machines can create a virtual map of the area they are working in, allowing them to avoid obstacles and navigate around tricky terrain. This means that they can work in areas where traditional mowers would struggle, such as steep hills or narrow paths, making them a versatile and valuable tool for turf care professionals.

What is a Commercial Robot Lawn Mower?

A commercial robotic lawn mower is a type of autonomous lawn mower that is designed to maintain large areas of grass. These mowers can be used in a variety of settings, including sports fields, schools, and commercial properties. They are typically much larger than residential robotic lawn mowers and are capable of covering much larger areas of grass.

Commercial robot lawn mowers are equipped with advanced technologies that allow them to navigate around obstacles and mow grass in a systematic pattern. They use GPS, Bluetooth, and cellular technology to communicate with their owners and provide updates on their progress. Some models are even equipped with cameras that allow owners to monitor their mowers remotely.

One of the key benefits of using a commercial robotic lawn mower is that it can save time and money. These mowers can work around the clock, allowing owners to focus on other tasks. They also require less maintenance than traditional lawn mowers and can help reduce labor costs.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers are also environmentally friendly.

They are powered by electricity and produce no emissions, making them a great choice for businesses that want to reduce their carbon footprint. They also produce less noise than traditional lawn mowers, which can be a benefit in residential areas.

Overall, robot mowers are a great choice for businesses that want to maintain large areas of grass with minimal effort. They are efficient, environmentally friendly, and can save time and money in the long run.

Key Benefits of Using a Commercial Mowers

Commercial robot lawn mowers are becoming increasingly popular for their efficiency, safety, and wireless capabilities.

For the solopreneur looking to increase their services and clients, robot mowers offer you a fast way to scale and cover more clients.

Here are some of the benefits of using a commercial robotic lawn mower:

Efficiency

One of the main benefits of using a commercial robotic lawn mower is its efficiency. These mowers are designed to cut grass faster and more efficiently than traditional lawn mowers. They use advanced technology to navigate through the lawn and avoid obstacles, making it easy to maintain a healthy and well-manicured lawn.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers are also more efficient in terms of labor costs. They require minimal supervision and can work for extended periods without the need for breaks or rest. This makes them ideal for large commercial properties such as golf courses, sports fields, and city parks.

Safety

Another significant benefit of using a commercial robotic lawn mower is safety. These mowers are designed with safety in mind, and they come equipped with various safety features to prevent accidents. For example, they have sensors that can detect obstacles and stop the mower from moving forward, preventing collisions with people or objects.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers are also safer for the environment. They are electrically powered, which means they produce no emissions and are much quieter than traditional lawn mowers. This makes them ideal for use in residential areas, where noise pollution is a concern.

Wireless

Commercial robotic lawn mowers are also wireless, which means they can be controlled remotely. This makes them easy to use and operate, even from a distance. They can be programmed to work on a schedule, and the operator can monitor their progress from a smartphone or tablet.

Wireless capabilities also make it easy to maintain and repair commercial robotic lawn mowers. Operators can receive real-time alerts if there are any issues with the mower, and they can troubleshoot problems remotely. This reduces downtime and ensures that the mower is always in good working condition.

In conclusion, commercial robotic lawn mowers offer many benefits, including efficiency, safety, and wireless capabilities. They are ideal for large commercial properties and are becoming increasingly popular due to their advanced technology and ease of use.

Main Features to Look For When Buying A Commercial Robotic Lawn Mower

When searching for a commercial robotic lawn mower, there are several features to consider before making a purchase. These features include cutting width, battery life, and navigation system.

Cutting Width

The cutting width of a robotic lawn mower is an essential feature to consider. It determines how much area the mower can cover in a single pass. A wider cutting width is beneficial for large commercial properties, as it reduces the time required to mow the lawn.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers typically have a cutting width of 24 to 36 inches. A wider cutting width means that the mower can cover more ground in less time, which translates to increased efficiency and reduced labor costs.

Battery Life

Battery life is another critical feature to consider when selecting a commercial robotic lawn mower. The battery life determines how long the mower can operate before requiring a recharge. A longer battery life is beneficial for large commercial properties as it reduces downtime for recharging.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers typically have a battery life of 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on the model. It is essential to consider the size of the property and the amount of mowing required when selecting a mower with an appropriate battery life.

Navigation System

The navigation system is another important feature to consider when selecting a commercial robotic lawn mower. The navigation system determines how the mower navigates around obstacles and returns to its charging station.

Commercial robotic lawn mowers typically use one of two navigation systems: boundary wire or GPS. The boundary wire system uses a wire that is installed around the perimeter of the property to guide the mower. The GPS system uses satellites to guide the mower.

Both navigation systems have their advantages and disadvantages. The boundary wire system is more precise and can be used in areas with poor GPS reception. The GPS system is more flexible and can be used in areas without a boundary wire.

In conclusion, when selecting a commercial robotic lawn mower, it is essential to consider the cutting width, battery life, and navigation system. These features will determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the mower in maintaining a large commercial property.

How to Choose the Right Mower For Your Business

When selecting a commercial robotic lawn mower, there are a few factors to consider. This section will explore three important factors to consider when choosing the right commercial robotic lawn mower: lawn size, terrain type, and budget.

Lawn Size

The size of the lawns you are cutting is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a commercial robotic lawn mower. Different models are designed to handle different sizes of lawns. It is important to choose a mower that can handle the size of the lawn efficiently. An undersized mower will not be able to handle a large lawn, while an oversized mower will be inefficient and costly.

Terrain Type

The type of terrain is another important factor to consider when choosing a commercial robotic lawn mower. Different models are designed to handle different types of terrain. If the lawn has steep inclines or declines, it is important to choose a mower that can handle these types of terrain. If the lawn has obstacles such as trees or bushes, a mower with obstacle detection and avoidance technology is recommended.

Budget

Budget is an important factor to consider when choosing a commercial robotic lawn mower. Different models have different features and price points. It is important to choose a mower that fits within the budget while still meeting the needs of the lawn. It is also important to consider the long-term costs of maintenance and repairs when choosing a mower.

When choosing the right commercial robotic lawn mower, it is important to consider the size of the lawn, the type of terrain, and the budget. By considering these factors, a business owner can choose a mower that efficiently and effectively maintains the lawn.

Top Commercial Robotic Lawn Mower Brands

When it comes to commercial robotic lawn mowers, there are several top brands to consider. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits that make them stand out in the market. In this section, we will discuss the top commercial robotic lawn mower brands and what makes them special.

Husqvarna

Husqvarna is one of the leading brands in the commercial robotic lawn mower market. They offer a complete line of robot lawn mowers for commercial use, ranging from the entry-level 520 to the advanced 550 series. The entry-level models of the Automowers require wires to be installed to help guide the lawn mower. They also have advanced features such as GPS navigation, theft protection, and remote control via a smartphone app. Husqvarna is known for their reliability, durability, and quality.

Belrobotics

Belrobotics is a Belgian company that specializes in producing commercial robotic lawn mowers. Their mowers are designed for large areas such as golf courses, sports fields, and parks. They offer a range of models, including the Bigmow, Parcmow, and Ballpicker. The Bigmow, for example, can mow up to 24 acres and has a cutting width of 42 inches. Belrobotics mowers are known for their high performance, efficiency, and low noise levels.

Greenzie

Greenzie is a US-based company that produces commercial robotic lawn mowers. Their mowers are designed for small to medium-sized areas such as schools, hospitals, and office parks. They offer a range of models, including the GX1000, GX2000, and GX4000. The GX1000, for example, can mow up to 1 acre and has a cutting width of 28 inches. Greenzie mowers are known for their affordability, ease of use, and low maintenance.

Scythe Robotics

Scythe Robotics is a UK-based company that produces commercial robotic lawn mowers. Their mowers are designed for large areas such as golf courses, parks, and cemeteries. They offer a range of models, including the Raven, Osprey, and Kestrel. The Raven, for example, can mow up to 5 acres and has a cutting width of 36 inches. Scythe Robotics mowers are known for their high performance, reliability, and low noise levels.

Other Brands

There are several other brands of commercial robotic lawn mowers on the market, including Robomow, Ambrogio, and Mean Green. Robomow, for example, offers a range of models for small to medium-sized areas such as lawns, gardens, and parks. Ambrogio, on the other hand, offers a range of models for large areas such as golf courses, sports fields, and parks. Mean Green offers a range of electric mowers for commercial use, including the CXR-60 and the SK-48. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits that make them stand out in the market.

Final Thoughts

Robot lawn mowers are a great innovation in the field of lawn care. They have come a long way in short amount of time and now have legit options for your commercial business. They offer numerous benefits over traditional mowers, including increased efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Professionals in the lawn care industry can greatly benefit from the use of these machines, as they can save time and increase productivity.

One of the greatest advantages of commercial robotic lawn mowers is their safety features. These machines are equipped with sensors that can detect obstacles and stop the mower before any damage is done. This not only protects the mower from damage but also prevents accidents and injuries to people or pets. Additionally, robotic mowers are virtually silent, making them ideal for use in residential areas where noise pollution is a concern.

In terms of innovation, commercial robot lawn mowers are leading the way in the lawn care industry. They are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to navigate complex terrain and mow large areas with ease. The use of GPS technology and virtual boundaries ensures that the mower stays within the designated mowing area, eliminating the need for physical barriers or fences.

Another advantage of commercial robotic lawn mowers is their cost-effectiveness. While the initial investment may be high, the long-term benefits of reduced labor costs and increased efficiency make them a wise investment for businesses. They also require less maintenance than traditional mowers, reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements.

The future is here folks and commercial robotic lawn mowers are a great investment for professionals in the lawn care industry.

The cost of starting your own lawn care business can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the business, the equipment needed, and the marketing strategy. Some of the major expenses include purchasing commercial-grade lawnmowers, trimmers, blowers, and other landscaping tools, as well as a vehicle for transportation. Additionally, one must consider the cost of insurance, licensing, and permits.

In this guide,I will break down the different start-up costs associated with starting a lawn care business and provide tips for minimizing expenses.

Factors that Affect the Costs of Running Your Own Lawn Care Company

In this section, I will discuss some of the most important factors that you need to consider when starting out.

#1 – Equipment Costs

One of the most significant expenses when starting a lawn care business is the equipment. You will need a variety of equipment, including lawnmowers, edgers, leaf blowers, string trimmers, wheelbarrows, and shovels. The cost of this equipment can vary depending on the brand and quality you choose. You can purchase new equipment or consider buying used equipment to save money.

#2 – Insurance Costs

Another crucial expense when starting a lawn care business is insurance. You will need to have general liability insurance and commercial auto insurance to protect your business from accidents and other unforeseen events. The cost of insurance can vary depending on the coverage you choose and the size of your business.

#3 – Licenses and Permits

In most states, you will need to obtain a business license and other permits before you can start your lawn care business. The cost of these licenses and permits can vary depending on your location and the type of business structure you choose. You may also need to obtain a pesticide license if you plan to offer fertilization and pest control services.

#4 – Personnel Costs

If you plan to hire employees, you will need to consider the cost of wages, payroll taxes, and workers’ compensation insurance. The cost of personnel can vary depending on the number of employees you hire and their experience level.

#5 – Marketing Costs

Marketing is crucial when starting a lawn business. You will need to invest in marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and a website. You may also need to advertise your business in local newspapers and directories. The cost of marketing can vary depending on the methods you choose and the size of your business.

In conclusion, the start-up cost of a lawn care business can vary depending on several factors. It is essential to create a budget and plan your expenses carefully to ensure that you can cover all the necessary costs. By considering the factors discussed in this section, you can make informed decisions and start your lawn care business on the right foot.

Calculating Your Start-Up Costs

Starting a lawn care business requires a significant investment of time and money. As an entrepreneur, I need to calculate the start-up cost to ensure that I have enough capital to cover all the expenses. Here are the steps I take to calculate the start-up cost:

1. Determine the Business Structure: Before calculating the cost, I need to decide on the business structure. It can be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Each structure has its own legal and tax implications, so I need to consult with an attorney or an accountant to determine the best structure for my business.
2. List the Equipment: The next step is to list all the equipment I need to start a lawn care business. It includes mowers, trimmers, blowers, edgers, trailers, and other tools. I can either buy or lease the equipment, depending on my budget and business plan.
3. Estimate the Cost of Equipment: Once I have listed the equipment, I need to estimate the cost of each item. I can research the prices online or visit local dealerships to get a better idea of the cost. It’s essential to factor in the quality and durability of the equipment to ensure that I’m investing in the right tools.
4. Calculate the Vehicle Cost: A lawn care business requires a vehicle to transport the equipment to different locations. I need to calculate the cost of the vehicle, including the down payment, monthly payments, insurance, and maintenance.
5. Add Other Miscellaneous Expenses: Apart from the equipment and vehicle cost, there are other expenses to consider, such as business registration, insurance, marketing, and office supplies. I need to estimate the cost of each expense and add it to the total start-up cost.
6. Determine the Total Start-Up Cost: After calculating all the expenses, I need to add them up to determine the total start-up cost. It’s essential to have a buffer amount to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise.

By following these steps, I can calculate the start-up cost of my lawn care business accurately. It’s crucial to have a realistic budget and plan to ensure the success of the business.

Tips for Reducing the Start-Up Cost

Starting a lawn care business can be a lucrative venture, but it can also be expensive. Here are some tips on how to reduce the start-up cost of your lawn care business:

Grants for Starting a Lawn Care Business

One way to reduce the start-up cost of your lawn care business is to look for grants. There are several organizations that offer grants to small businesses, including those in the lawn care industry. Some of these organizations include:

• The Small Business Administration (SBA)
• The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP)
• The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)

Before applying for a grant, be sure to read the eligibility requirements carefully. Some grants may require you to meet certain criteria, such as being a minority-owned business or having a specific type of business structure.

In addition to grants, some states and local governments offer tax breaks and other incentives to small businesses. Be sure to check with your local government to see if there are any programs available to help reduce the start-up cost of your lawn care business.

Remember, reducing the start-up cost of your lawn care business doesn’t mean cutting corners. It’s important to invest in quality equipment and materials to ensure the success of your business. By following these tips, you can start your lawn care business on a budget without sacrificing quality.

Final Advice

Starting a lawn care business can be a profitable venture, but it requires a significant investment of time, effort, and money. In this guide, we have discussed the various costs associated with starting a lawn care business, including equipment, licenses, insurance, marketing, and more.

One of the most significant expenses you will incur when starting a lawn care business is the cost of equipment. Do not skip on buying quality equipment. It is essential to invest in high-quality equipment that will last for many years and withstand heavy use. You will also need to purchase a vehicle to transport your equipment to job sites.

Another significant cost is obtaining the necessary licenses and insurance. This includes a business license, liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance if you plan to hire employees. It is crucial to research the requirements in your area and ensure that you are properly licensed and insured.

Marketing is another expense that you will need to consider. You will need to develop a website, business cards, flyers, and other marketing materials to promote your business. Social media platforms can also be an effective way to reach potential customers.

It is crucial to carefully consider all of the costs associated with starting a lawn care business and develop a comprehensive business plan that includes a detailed budget. With the right equipment, licenses, insurance, and marketing strategy, you can build a successful and profitable lawn care business.

Many lawn care service owners wonder if they really need insurance, and the answer is yes. In many cases, insurance will be required by law.

But even if not, having adequate insurance coverage will help protect against the unique risks that your business faces.

• An employee may injure themselves while using a string trimmer.
• An employee’s property may be damaged while mowing the lawn.

Accidents can and do happen, and when they cause damage or injury, you will likely be responsible for those costs unless you have insurance.

What Insurance Do I Need for a Lawn Mowing Business?

You know the importance of having insurance, but what type of coverage will you need?

While every business will have its own unique risks, some of the most important coverages to have include:

General Liability

Every business owner should have general liability insurance. General liability provides vital coverage for:

• Property damage: Covers the cost of damage to customer property.
• Bodily injury: If a customer is injured while you’re on the job or at your place of business, general liability will cover their medical bills.

Depending on the insurer, general liability may also provide coverage for:

• Damage to rented property
• Advertising injuries
• Reputational harm

Most small businesses pay $360 – $1,200 per month for general liability insurance.

Business Owners Policy (BOP)

A business owners policy, or BOP, will combine both liability protection and commercial property insurance. If you run your lawn care business out of a physical location, a BOP makes sense.

The commercial property insurance that’s included with this policy will cover:

• The building itself
• Movable property owned by and used by your business

Typically, this type of policy will cover the cost of damage caused by fire, theft, weather, vandalism and other perils.

BOP coverage may also cover loss of income, debris removal and even pollution cleanup if necessary.  The average cost for a BOP policy is $600 – $700 per year.

Workers’ Compensation

If you have employees, you will need workers’ compensation insurance, which will cover the cost of medical care, rehabilitation, lost wages and more if an employee is injured while on the job.

Workers’ compensation insurance is required by law in virtually every state. Each state has its own requirements for workers’ comp, so make sure that you understand these requirements before obtaining coverage.

If you work as a sole proprietor and do not have any employees, you may not need this insurance. Be sure to check your state’s laws to determine whether you will still need this coverage as a sole proprietor.

Commercial Auto

As a lawn care service provider, you will need vehicles to transport your equipment to your job sites. Those vehicles will need to be covered by a commercial auto insurance policy.

A commercial auto insurance policy will provide a number of essential coverages if you or an employee get into an accident while on the job, including:

• Liability
• Physical damage
• Uninsured motorist
• Medical payments
• Hired auto
• Non-owned coverage

A comprehensive commercial auto policy will help cover the cost of property damage and medical care if an accident causes damage or injuries. Costs for commercial auto insurance are based on many factors, but most companies pay between $1,700 and $2,200+ per year.

Business Income Insurance

If your equipment or your truck is stolen, business income insurance will cover your lost income during this time. In fact, these policies will include property damage and theft, so you’ll have your income replaced if:

• Your truck is damaged in an accident
• A lawn mower is stolen from your facility
• Other incidents

Since your equipment is your livelihood, it’s important to have business income insurance. Most businesses will pay between $500 and $1,500 per year in premiums for business interruption.

Commercial Property Insurance

You may or may not need commercial property insurance. Most lawn mowing businesses will only obtain this insurance:

• If they lease a building
• If they purchase a building

The building may be used as office space, or it can be a place to store all of your equipment. In this case, you’ll need commercial property insurance.

If you choose to have a lower deductible, your insurance will be higher.

Most companies pay between $500 and $1,000 per year for commercial property insurance, but prices can range from under $500 to over $1,200. Factors that will determine premiums are:

• Location
• Building size
• Building age
• Use of building
• Security and safety features
• more

Optional: Herbicide and Pesticide Coverage

One of the coverage options that we’re seeing pop up more when securing insurance to mow lawns is herbicide and pesticide coverage. If your lawn business does include using chemicals of this nature, you may be held liable if your customers become sick from these chemicals.

Even if the manufacturer is named in the lawsuit, you’re likely required to pay a portion of the settlement amount.

Determining the cost for this type of insurance is difficult because:

• It’s often added to a liability policy
• Commercial entities, such as golf courses, are often required to have this insurance on their own

You’ll need to discuss adding this insurance with your insurer if you do plan on using herbicides or pesticides as a part of your service.

How Much Is Insurance for Lawn Mowing Business?

Insurance for lawn mowing businesses will vary from state to state, but based on the figures above, you can expect to pay between $3,600 and $6,800. Your premiums may be more if you opt for higher limits or based on the following factors:

• Number of employees
• Location
• Claims history

If you need lawn mowing insurance and are trying to better understand the costs involved, seek out multiple quotes from insurance companies and compare them to find the best value.

Having the right stump grinding insurance is crucial. But what are the insurance requirements for stump removal companies?

Insurance Requirements for Stump Removal Services

While insurance requirements for businesses vary from state to state, there is one type of insurance that every stump grinding business will need: general liability.

General Liability

General liability is the most important insurance for stump grinding services. Some states or local jurisdictions may require this insurance. Even if they don’t, customers or contractors will likely require it.

A general liability insurance policy will provide a wide range of coverages, including:

• Bodily injury
• Medical payments
• Property damage
• Legal defense
• Personal and advertising injury

If a customer is hurt while you’re performing your work, general liability can cover the cost of their medical care. If you happen to damage a customer’s property while on the job, then your policy can also cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Most experts recommend obtaining a $1 million general liability policy to mitigate risk.

While general liability is one of the most important insurance policies you can obtain, it doesn’t cover all of your risks. These policies do not cover:

• Commercial auto accidents
• Damage to your own business’s property
• Employee illness or injuries

For this reason, it’s often advised that stump grinding businesses obtain additional insurance policies to help cover these risks.

Other Types of Coverage Stump Grinder Removal Services Need

In addition to general liability insurance, stump grinding removal services should also consider the following insurance policies:

Commercial Property

If you run your business out of commercial space, then you should have commercial property insurance.

Commercial property insurance can protect against damages or losses caused by:

• Theft
• Windstorms
• Lightning
• Fires

Commercial building insurance will also cover your business’s physical assets, such as your:

• Building
• Inventory
• Personal property
• Furniture
• Tools
• Equipment

In some cases, commercial property insurance will include business interruption insurance, which will help replace your lost income if your business cannot operate due to a covered peril.

A policy like this will also cover business-owned assets that are stored on-site.

Commercial Auto

If you have company vehicles that you or your employees use to get to and from jobs, you will need commercial auto insurance.

Commercial auto insurance will cover the cost of repairs, medical expenses, lost equipment and liability claims if one of your business’s vehicles is involved in an accident while on the job.

A commercial auto insurance policy can cover:

• Bodily injury liability to pay for another party’s medical expenses.
• Collision, which will cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle if it’s in an accident with another vehicle or object.
• Property damage liability to pay for damage caused to another party’s property.
• Comprehensive coverage, which will help pay for damages caused by fire, theft or another natural disaster.
• Medical payments coverage, which will cover medical expenses for employees and passengers if they are injured in an accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which will help you pay for your employee’s medical expenses or repair your vehicle if the other party leaves the scene of the accident or doesn’t have enough liability coverage.

Inland Marine

Business tools, especially stump grinders and related equipment, are expensive. Your commercial property insurance is designed to protect your tools when they’re onsite. Once your tools are offsite, the policy may:

• Limit coverage
• Exclude coverage

When your business property, tools or equipment are damaged while off-premises, inland marine insurance will cover them.

Workers’ Compensation

Depending on the state where your business is located, you may be mandated to have workers’ compensation insurance, also known as workers’ comp. This insurance is only required if you have employees, and it protects both your business and your workforce.

First, workers’ comp will pay for any legal representation if you’re sued by an employee.

Secondly, the following coverage is provided to your employees:

• Medical coverage
• Percentage of lost wages

However, the policy only provides these benefits if the employee is injured on the job.

The insurer you work with may offer a business owner’s policy (BOP), which will include many types of insurance in one, including:

• General liability
• Business interruption
• Commercial property insurance

Many BOPs are customizable, so you can add additional insurance options to them. Bundling your policies together into one package will often save you money on your premiums.

How Much Does Stump Grinding Insurance Cost?

Stump grinding insurance has many moving parts. If you opt for higher policy limits, your premiums will rise. However, when we add up all of the following annual premiums, you can determine the average insurance cost range:

• General Liability: $400 – $1,500+
• Commercial Property Insurance: $750 – $3,000+
• Commercial Auto Insurance: $600 – $1,800+
• Inland Marine Insurance: $170 – $800+
• Workers’ Compensation: $500 – $800+

If you add all of these up, you may be paying between $2,400 and $7,900+ per year. Of course, the costs will rise if you have multiple commercial vehicles, large buildings, more employees and more.

However, obtaining enough insurance and having the right policy in place will allow you to grow your stump grinding business with as low of risks as possible.

Working with an insurer that has experience in stump grinding insurance will allow you peace of mind that your business is safe from liability claims, employee injuries and accidents.

In fact, the steps to starting your own lawn care business are pretty straightforward. Below, we walk you through them one by one so you know exactly what you need to do to get your lawn care business off the ground.

10 Simple Steps to Starting a Lawn Mowing Business

1. Conduct market analysis and decide what to offer.

Your first step should be to analyze the lawn care market in your area to identify potential clients and what services they need.

If possible, you should look for gaps in what other lawn care businesses are offering. What needs are going unaddressed? What vacuums are waiting to be filled?

Once you identify real market demand, you will know what you should focus on in terms of your services and marketing. You can then build your business around meeting that demand.

2. Come up with a lawn care business plan.

Next, you need to lay the foundations for a successful business by creating a lawn care business plan. This process will help you get organized and anticipate obstacles and pitfalls. A business plan for lawn care startups should include:

• An executive summary and business overview, including a lawn care business description.
• A list of the services you intend to offer.
• Your market analysis.
• Your budget.
• Your pricing.
• An analysis of what your competitors are doing.
• Marketing strategies.
• Whether you will hire employees, and at what rates of pay.
• Anything else you feel is important in helping you plan your new lawn care business.

If you are applying for financing (see below), make sure you also include a cover letter and table of contents when you put together your business plan. You want to make it as easy as possible for potential lenders to understand what you are building.

3. Raise capital.

Next, you will need to find a source of funding for your equipment, marketing, licensing fees, and any other startup costs.

Hopefully, you already have the money you need to finance your business yourself. But if you do not, you could apply for a personal loan or an SBA-backed loan.

You might have other options as well, depending on your situation. If you own sufficient home equity, for example, you could borrow against it. If you have a supportive family, they might be willing to lend you some of the funds or even donate them outright. The only way to find out is to ask.

If you are having a difficult time with this step, you could always try to start small and build your way up. For example, you could just do lawn mowing in the beginning, and as you make money from your business, you could use it to purchase new equipment and start expanding your services.

4. Register your business and apply for licenses and permits.

Now it is time to register your business with the government and apply for any necessary licenses and permits.

With a lawn care business, this paperwork tends to be pretty minimal. You will need to first apply for a business license. Depending on the types of services you will be performing, you might next need to apply for permits. These are commonly required, for example, if you will be working with herbicides and pesticides.

This is also the time for you to decide on a structure for your business. Different types of business structures include sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, S corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs).

Sole proprietorships are a common default for small business owners, but as a lawn care professional, you should consider forming an LLC.

Why? Well, from a taxation standpoint, operating as an LLC with a small business is no different from operating a sole proprietorship. But there is a massive difference when it comes to liabilities.

If you operate as a sole proprietorship, you and only you are solely responsible for any and all liabilities your business might incur. From a legal standpoint, you and your lawn care company are synonymous.

That means that anything your insurance does not cover, you personally will have to cover. You are on the line for all of it.

But an LLC is a limited liability company. If you form an LLC, you and your business are separate entities. That does not mean you may not sometimes find yourself personally liable for certain things, but it does make it less likely in general that a lien will be put on your personal assets to repay business debts and liabilities.

To avoid personal liability, you need to make sure you are not acting as if your LLC is a sole proprietorship. A lawyer can advise you as to how to conduct your business to minimize your personal liability while operating as an LLC.

With some types of businesses, operating as a sole proprietorship is no big deal, since liabilities are unlikely.

But in lawn care, there is a lot that can go wrong. A tree you are cutting down could injure someone or cause property damage. A pesticide or herbicide you use apply result in problems with a garden’s ecological balance. You could accidentally let the owner’s pet out of the yard, etc. 

Given all the things you could be liable for, it makes sense to give yourself as much protection as possible. So, an LLC may be worth it.

5. Buy your equipment.

Now you are finally ready to start buying equipment for your business. The exact equipment, tools and supplies you need will depend on your specific services. Some examples might include:

• A mower
• An edger
• A leaf blower
• Trimmers
• A spreader
• A sprayer
• Pesticides or other chemicals
• Bags for collecting leaves and debris
• Gloves
• Shears and other hand tools
• Safety equipment

Again, there is nothing wrong with starting small and acquiring more equipment and offering more services as your budget permits. You do not necessarily need to get everything you need all at once.

6. Purchase insurance.

Next, you are going to need to apply for lawn care insurance. At a minimum, this should include general liability insurance. But you might also want to apply for other types of policies such as commercial property insurance, contractor’s tools and equipment insurance, professional liability insurance, commercial auto insurance, business interruption insurance, and (if applicable) workers’ compensation.

On our site, you can discover a lot more information about the different types of lawn care insurance and how you can save money on your policies while still getting great protection for your lawn care business.

7. Start marketing and offering your services.

You now have everything you need to start performing services. But, to do any work, you will need to find clients.

This is often the hardest part of starting any new business (or keeping an established one going, for that matter).

A good way to start is to make a website or social media page for your business, and then get your business listed on Google Maps. Be sure to claim your listing.

Social media groups may allow you further promotional opportunities; just make sure you are allowed to promote on any local groups you join before you do so.

In terms of other forms of local advertising in your community, you could attend local events, host workshops, and advertise on your vehicle.

You also may want to think about where your customers are shopping. If they are trying to do something with their lawn on their own, they might drop by a local hardware store or plant nursery, for example. See if you can drop off business cards there for staff to hand out to customers who might want professional help with their lawn care.

If you can, try and get on a regular schedule with some of your customers for ongoing lawn care. Doing so can help you break free of the “feast or famine” scenario that often goes with self employment.

8. Hire employees if you need them.

Depending on the scale of your prospective business, you might also need to think at this stage about bringing other people onboard.

Hiring employees will allow you to serve a larger geographical area in a shorter amount of time, bringing in more revenue and potentially spreading your name more rapidly throughout the broader community as well.

Of course, employees also bring complications. You need to make sure that you are hiring trustworthy, experienced staff who will be able to carry out their jobs efficiently while minimizing risks to your business. It is also a legal requirement that you purchase workers’ compensation for all staff.

If hiring employees seems like too much to deal with as you are just getting your business going, you could always come back to it later. Just start up doing your own lawn care work, and begin hiring when you feel ready (or not at all, if you want to keep things small).

9. Figure out your accounting and taxes.

One more step you should take early on when starting a lawn care business is coming up with systems and strategies for managing your money.

You should either work with an accountant or do your own accounting on a regular basis so you fully understand the money flowing in and out of your business. That way, you will be able to identify areas where you can cut costs.

Additionally, you should start thinking about taxes immediately. Look up how taxes work for the business structure you have chosen, and do not forget to pay your estimated taxes. Doing so from the start will help you to avoid underpayment penalties.

You should also learn about self-employment taxes, the tax impacts of earning income unevenly throughout the year, and other tax issues specific to small businesses.

10. Continue to assess and adjust to seize new opportunities.

In the weeks, months, and years after you launch your lawn care business, you should regularly evaluate your progress. Are you meeting your goals or falling short? If you are meeting your goals, are you ready to aim for higher ones?

Along with looking for ways to better meet your budget, you should try to refine your hiring strategies, marketing techniques, and the methods you use for lawn care itself. That way, you can continue to boost revenue, increase customer satisfaction and grow your business.

Need Help Forming an LLC for Your Lawn Care Business?

Now you know the basics of how to start a lawn care business, including how to draft a business plan, structure your company, and find your first customers.

Creating an LLC is simpler than creating a corporation, but does involve more legwork than creating a sole proprietorship. Need help forming an LLC for lawn care? Click below to quickly start your LLC with a fast and easy online process.

A few questions to ask are:

• Do I need a lawn care LLC?
• Can I operate as a sole proprietorship?
• What are the pros of an LLC?

Do I Need an LLC To Mow Lawns?

No, but they are very beneficial. If you’re mowing your neighbor’s lawn or a friend’s lawn, you likely don’t need an LLC. However, an LLC would help offer you protection for events that may only happen in 1 out of 10,000 mows.

For example, if a customer claims that you caused property or bodily injury, they can sue you.

If you’re a sole proprietor, there’s no division between you and your business. A lawsuit without an LLC can lead to you being liable for incidents out of your control and can involve your:

• Car
• Home
• Savings

A lawn care LLC offers limited liability protection, keeping your personal assets from being involved in a lawsuit.

Lawn Care LLC or Sole Proprietorship?

Most lawn care businesses will benefit from incorporating as an LLC. Simple and inexpensive, you can form an LLC for cheap, and they’ll offer numerous key benefits, such as:

• Limited liability, meaning that your home, car and savings accounts are protected in the event that a settlement against the business occurs.
• LLCs have more tax options and benefits than sole proprietorships.
• Businesses that are an LLC are seen as more credible by potential customers.

Limited liability is a protection that cannot go understated in your decision to incorporate. If your business is involved in a lawsuit or defaults on debt, creditors cannot come after your personal assets.

Even if you have general liability insurance, there’s always the chance that:

• Insurance won’t cover the full cost of the claim
• A judge will request your assets be liquidated to pay the debt

With an LLC that is operated properly without co-mingling any assets, you’re shielded from liability. Instead, the creditor or judge can ask the business to pay the debt, but the owners of the lawn care business are personally shielded from liability.

Why?

The corporate veil. A corporate veil protects owners from being held liable for business debts. However, there are certain rules that you must also follow to ensure that you don’t pierce the veil, such as not co-mingling bank accounts.

Sole Proprietorship

Anyone can be a sole proprietor if they are a legal citizen. While you can start operating your lawn care business a day or two earlier, you will be solely liable for the business. What does this mean?

You’re:

• 100% liable in the event you’re sued
• 100% responsible for any judgments against you
• At risk of having to liquidate assets to satisfy judgments

Additionally, if you do not incorporate, you’re also at a business disadvantage because your business will not be seen as “professional,” and it can be very difficult to raise capital. If you do grow the company into a successful entity, you’ll find it more challenging to sell the business.

In terms of taxation, an LLC is treated as a pass-through entity, meaning it will be taxed as a partnership or sole proprietorship. For example, if you’re the only employee, the net income of the business will pass to you and be filed on your own individual tax return.

You’ll be taxed based on the owner’s tax bracket in this case.

However, with an LLC lawn care business organization, you can always treat your business as an S Corp. The benefits here are the option of being able to reduce your tax burden and may even be able to minimize self-employment taxes.

There are many benefits to incorporating as an LLC, and the tax savings alone can help offset the initial incorporation costs.

Forming a Lawn Care LLC is Easy

Starting a lawn care business is a decision to have financial freedom. You have a lot of great opportunities in an ever-in-demand business. However, the initial steps that you take to open your business can have lasting consequences for your business.

Opening your lawn care business as a sole proprietorship may seem like the easy, logical choice, but an LLC will provide:

• Liability protection
• Tax choices
• Peace of mind

While you may not need to have an LLC to start your business, it’s the right legal decision in the long term. You may never be involved in a lawsuit or go bankrupt, but if you are, the small cost of an LLC will protect your savings and home from being taken to satisfy your debts.

Company Profile

https://www.yardbook.com

Yardbook is a cloud-based SaaS service for landscaping and lawn care businesses. The software is designed to help with the management of administrative tasks, such as invoicing, customer management and more.

There is no mobile or desktop Yardbook app. Instead, the entire application is web-based and accessible via any internet-connected device, which includes mobile devices and desktop PCs.

The robust application helps streamline management tasks, keeps businesses organized and improves the customer experience.

Yardbook states that more than 20,000 businesses are using its platform, which has been featured on:

• TechCrunch
• Landscape Management
• Entrepreneur
• Inc.
• Yahoo! News

Yardbook aims to be a one-stop-shop solution for the management of lawn care-related businesses.

Yardbook Features

Yardbook has an extensive list of features that help with the management of your business’s finances, jobs, customers and employees. All of these features allow business owners to manage their most important tasks from one centralized location.

Yardbook’s features include:

Track Jobs

With Yardbook, you can track and schedule jobs quickly and easily. Through calendar view, you get a complete overview of the month to see which jobs you have scheduled. You can also choose List and Assignment view to get a more detailed look at the jobs ahead.

Quick buttons at the top of the page allow you to:

• Add a new job
• Add a new task
• Add a new visit
• Filter your jobs
• Edit your calendar settings

In calendar view, you can click on scheduled jobs to get more information, including:

• Job description
• Type of work
• Customer address, name and phone number
• Time and date
• Crew assignments
• Invoice information
• Customer forms

You can also change the status of the job to “canceled” or “completed” with the click of a button.

Crews can clock in for a job, or timesheets can be added manually.

Yardbook’s job tracking is robust and intuitive, making it easy to streamline job scheduling and keep your schedule organized.

Manage Sales and Leads

Yardbook offers a variety of features that can help you better manage your sales and attract new customers. These features include:

Creating a Business Profile

With Yardbook, you can create a business profile that showcases your work and makes it easy for prospects to contact you directly.

Yardbook profiles allow businesses to:

• Target their service areas
• Accept credit card payments for quicker payments
• Offer coupons and other promotions
• Swap referrals with others in the business

A business profile on Yardbook will help with brand building and expose your business to more potential customers in your target area.

Create Estimates

Through Yardbook, you can create and send estimates in just a few clicks.

• Add the customer’s name
• Choose products and services to add from your catalog of services
• Add comments and messages
• Include your company name and logo
• Add discounts and payment terms

Creating estimates is quick and easy with this robust solution. Once completed, estimates can be sent to customers via email or printed and handed over manually or through the mail.

With the click of a button, you can also:

• Transform estimates into invoices
• Schedule jobs included on the estimate
• Create similar estimates for other customers

You can also view all of your outstanding estimates in a convenient list for easy management.

Invoicing

Yardbook’s Invoices tab allows you to see all of your invoices at a glance and take action right from the main dashboard to save time. You can also view more details about invoices and create new ones with ease.

Clicking on an invoice will bring you to the customer’s page and invoice tab. From here, you can create new invoices or adjust pending invoices.

You can also click on the Settings tab to adjust the settings for your invoices, including its appearance, payment terms, convenience fees, automation settings and more.

Customer Management

Yardbook makes it easy to manage customers. You can add their information manually, or import from a file.

From the main customer dashboard, you can view the most important information for each listing:

• Name
• Address (along with a Google Maps link to their location)
• Email address
• Phone number

You can also automate some tasks from this main dashboard. For example, clicking on the mail icon next to the customer’s email address will open a dialog box asking if you want to automatically email the customer when a job is complete.

You can add tags to customers, too.

Clicking on a customer’s name will bring up their profile. Here you can view:

• How many properties they have
• How many activities they have
• How many payments they’ve made
• How many invoices you’ve sent
• Notes
• Discounts for the customer
• Payment terms

Under the invoices tab, you can:

• Record payments
• Edit invoices
• Create recurring invoices
• Send invoices to the customer

There are also tabs to add:

• Before and after photos
• Estimates
• Customer forms
• Notes and other attachments

You can also view the customer’s timeline to see what jobs you’ve completed, estimates, invoices and more. From here, you can also send emails and text messages to the customer.

Calculators, Lot Measurements and To-Do Lists

Yardbook provides helpful calculators to determine how much material you’ll need for jobs, including:

• Mulch
• Topsoil
• Gravel
• Plants
• Fertilizer

All of these calculators are accessible from the main dropdown menu.

Yardbook recently added a “lot measurement” feature, which allows businesses to calculate measurements of properties remotely. This feature uses Google satellite imagery to help with material and service calculations.

Along with calculators and lot measurements, you can also access and create to-do lists right from the main menu. Add important tasks quickly and view them anytime you need.

Equipment Management

With Yardbook, you can also create an inventory of your equipment and manage it from one platform.

Each equipment listing includes the:

• Serial number
• Model number
• Purchase date and price
• Storage location

You can also assign equipment to employees or crews with the click of a button. You can schedule maintenance for equipment and click “Check Out” to set the equipment to “in use” status by an employee or crew.

The main equipment dashboard allows you to see all of your equipment and its availability at a glance.

Chemical Application Tracking and Management

With Yardbook, business owners can track chemical applications quickly and easily. From the main Chemicals dashboard, you can:

• Add chemical application records
• Setup chemicals

When adding a new record, you can record the:

• Property address
• Date
• Start and end times
• Weather conditions
• Chemical details
• Application area
• More

You can also download your chemical application list as a CSV for easy management and use in other applications.

Expense and Vendor Management

With Yardbook, owners can track their expenses and manage their vendors with ease.

Detailed expense recordings allow you to add:

• The expense date
• Who was paid (store or vendor name)
• The amount
• Category (dump fees, materials, etc.)

Vendors can also be added with just a few clicks for easy management and recording. Add their name, address, email and any other relevant notes.

Catalog of Services and Inventory

Yardbook’s Catalog of Services feature is helpful for creating estimates and invoices. Simply add your services and/or products to your catalog along with their price and other relevant details, like sales tax.

When creating estimates and invoices, simply choose the relevant services, and the costs will be added automatically for you.

Employee and Crew Management

Yardbook aims to be a complete lawn business management solution. Along with customer and service management, you can also manage your employees right through the online platform.

• Add employee details quickly and easily. View all of your employees and their contact information at a glance.
• Create crews and add employees to each group. You can also give crews a name for easy reference.

Employees also get their own jobs and time clock pages.

Along with managing crew and employee information, you can also:

• Create and track timesheets for each employee

Those who sign up for the Premium package with Yardbook can also enjoy GPS location tracking to record the geo locations of employees when they clock in and out.

Reporting

Yardbook can also generate reports that make it easier to manage a business and make informed decisions.

You can generate reports for:

• Customers
• Invoices
• Payments
• Expenses
• Profit and loss estimates
• Job costing
• Sales tax
• Earning forecast and estimates
• Properties
• Product and service
• Job profitability
• Employee revenue

Reports are enriched with tables and charts, making it easy to view key information at a glance.

How Much is Yardbook?

Yardbook has many features that make business management a breeze, but how much will it cost you? Yardbook pricing is surprisingly affordable, and businesses have three tiers to choose from:

Starter – Free

• Customer management
• Estimates
• Jobs and scheduling
• Invoices
• Expenses
• Routing
• Report generation
• Employee access
• Lot measurement
• Credit card payments
• Product catalog
• Snow removal

Business – $34.99/month

Everything included in the Starter package as well as:

• Bulk text messages
• Bulk emails
• Automatic invoice reminders
• Automatic backups
• Multi-step chemical programs
• Customized lead capture feature
• Yardbook’s processing fee is waived

Enterprise – $49.99/month

Everything included in the Business package as well as:

• QuickBooks sync
• Branded company portal

Each plan gives you access to the platform via web browser and mobile devices, so you can use your account whenever and wherever as long as you’re on an internet-connected device.

The Enterprise plan provides the most features and is the only option for syncing QuickBooks data. New lawncare businesses may have to miss out on this feature until they have the budget for the highest-level tier available for Yardbook.

If you’re unsure of whether Yardbook is for you or if it will be worth the cost, you can demo the platform from your web browser for free and without having to make an account. The demo account gives you access to virtually every feature (minus GPS tracking and profile creation), so you can really see if it will be a good fit for your business.

Yardbook Pros

• Demo access is easily available on the website
• Robust features
• The application is easy to use
• Expense, job and employee management are comprehensive
• Reports are easy to read and beautifully designed

Cons

• QuickBooks syncing is only available on the most expensive tier
• Automated features are difficult to find and use
• Not enough import features

Although not perfect, Yardbook software reviews are generally positive. One common complaint is that there aren’t enough import features, which would save time and streamline more tasks. Some automated features, like automatic emails, are difficult to find and use.

Overall, Yardbook offers a wealth of features that will help lawn care business owners manage and organize schedules and administrative tasks. Most management tasks can be handled right from Yardbook, from the creation of estimates to customer management, expense tracking and employee management.

Company Info

ServiceTitan.com

Service Titan offers solutions for residential and commercial lawn care specialists, with a focus on powerful tools that can help them run their business more efficiently. Over 100,000 businesses trust the all-in-one suite of tools.

Service Titan started its business in June 2007, but it wasn’t until 2012 that the cloud-based platform launched. AAR hit 100M in 2018, and a year later, Service Titan grew to be trusted by 5,000+ of the most successful field service companies in the United States.

The platform offers exceptional tools for many industries, including lawn care but also:

• Chimney Sweep
• Electrician Software
• Garage Door
• HVAC Software
• Landscape
• Pest Control
• Plumbing Software
• Pool Service
• Septic
• Water Treatment
• Much more

Service Titan has received numerous accolades in recent years, including: Deloitte Fast 500, Forbes Cloud 100, Inc. Best Places to Work, Inc. 5000, LA Business Journal Fastest Growing Private Companies, and more.

Service Titan Features

Service Titan’s software offers visual tools and a drag-and-drop function to help business owners and managers get started with their lawn care solutions. There’s a lot going on when first firing up the demo, but features are divided into logical categories, including:

Dispatching

Showing up late to a job is bad for your business’s reputation. The dispatch board helps optimize your internal technician tracking to improve on-time service. Service Titan’s software is smart, utilizing AI and big data to:

• Optimize scheduling
• Identify scheduling issues
• Uncover traffic delays
• Receive alerts of auto trouble
• More

Scheduling tools help dispatchers have an easy time knowing when issues happen in the field or even before the lawn professional arrives. The point-and-click function allows dispatchers to reschedule, shorten or even extend jobs.

The dispatching software connects the field and office, allowing dispatchers to communicate with technicians through SMS.

Customers can also send confirmations over text, saving hours of time lost in-office per week by not having to deal with confirmation calls.

Dispatch can even see the vehicle’s location in real-time to alert customers of any potential issues.

Scheduling

Field service scheduling offers an easy way to prepare for complex jobs. Service Titan empowers lawn care businesses with:

• Scheduling days, weeks or months in advance
• Categorized jobs with information on tools needed, language spoken, past rescheduling and more
• Cycle through lawn care professionals’ schedules to book emergency calls when available

Drag-and-drop and color-coded schedules make it fast and easy for management and employees to view and adjust schedules accordingly.

Call Booking

Customer service needs to be on call when the phone rings. Service Titan refines the call booking process to allow for a greater customer experience thanks to:

• Built-in CRM so you know the customer’s name before picking up the phone
• Fill property data into the system
• Record incoming calls to review what the customer said

Service Titan makes it fast and easy to manage calls, with built-in features that help customer service view detailed information about the customer, their property and more.

Invoicing

Invoicing customers for a job is effortless with Service Titan. The software allows for auto-generated invoices and will automate the payment process for recurring plans. Digital invoices make it simple for customers to pay for the service and ensure that business owners are paid faster.

You can also send invoice reminders and view outstanding invoices using one central portal to manage the entire process.

Pricebook

Pricebooks are available that allow businesses to insert updated pricing data into the hands of their techs. The pricebook makes it easier to estimate jobs and provide upfront pricing to customers, thanks to:

• Product pictures
• Individual service pricing
• More

Pricebooks make it easier for techs to book services for the business and improve customer experience, too.

Mobile Estimates

No one is using clipboards anywhere. Service Titan Mobile transforms your business’s tablets into mobile estimate machines that make booking customers effortless. The platform allows for multiple functions, including:

• Uploading forms
• Pricebooks
• Customer information input
• So much more

Techs can easily create estimates, with the option of creating estimates on-site. The platform even allows for the tech to schedule the customer to ensure that a valuable lead is never lost.

Advanced Reporting

Service Titan’s platform collects key business data that becomes a valuable resource for businesses. The business reporting section of the platform provides one of the industry’s most in-depth reporting so that you can view:

• Revenue for any given period of time or service
• Overall team or employee performance
• Marketing ROI

The platform uses a 100% customizable dashboard and even includes nice extras, such as technician scorecards to keep track of every employee. Graphs and charts further make it easy to run advanced reports for the business.

Reporting software is available at the highest tier of the service and is one of the key features that lawn services rely on when trying to grow their business.

Payroll Management

Payroll management software allows for real-time tracking of:

• Timesheets
• Bonuses
• More

Businesses can even connect Service Titan to QuickBooks to further enhance the platform’s functionality. The timesheets help businesses keep track of drive time, vendor runs and more with automatic tracking

The payment structure can also be customized to meet the needs of your team.

Commission Tracking

Commissions can make it more enticing for field agents to promote custom services or upsell customers. The platform can track and payout these commissions to reward others for helping generate more revenue for the business.

Customizable Membership

Allow field agents to rapidly generate custom memberships with a three-step mobile wizard that allows you to:

• Schedule regular appointments
• Apply discounts
• Create custom service agreements

Every customer’s needs can be customized based on the service needed and the size of the property. Field techs can offer agreement renewals and become part of the sales team thanks to the membership module.

Recurring services are great for business.

Technicians will also have access to a mobile app that allows them to use a tablet to snap before and after pictures of the lawn, take notes and complete customer history. Suppose a customer has issues or routinely complains. In that case, this information can be uploaded to the system so that management can take steps to rectify the issue, even if that means blacklisting the customer.

How Much is Service Titan?

Service Titan offers custom pricing and solutions, but the following tier options are available:

Starter

• Dispatching
• Scheduling
• Call Booking
• Invoicing
• Pricebook

Essentials

Everything included in the Starter package as well as:

• Mobile Estimates

The Works

Everything in the Starter and Essential tier, plus:

• Advanced Reporting
• Payroll Management
• Commission Tracking
• Customizable Membership

Service Titan pricing is not readily available on their site. Instead, the company offers custom pricing for each client based on the business’s goals and size. You will need to request pricing for any of the tiers above.

Service Titan Pros

• Advanced reporting allows for detailed reports
• Payroll management makes it easier to manage payroll
• Easy dispatching and scheduling system
• Support is one of the best in the industry
• Continues improving based on customer feedback

Cons

• Must contact for pricing
• Slight learning curve

All of the best lawn care software apps have a learning curve, and Service Titan is no exception. Users will have to spend time figuring out how the application can be integrated into their business. However, customer service is impeccable and willing to answer all of your questions.

Onboarding has also been revamped in recent years to help lower the learning curve and help businesses start using Service Titan faster.

Service Titan may not be “perfect,” but it’s proven to be a valuable tool for lawn care business owners who want to manage their business using one proven tool that continues to innovate the industry year after year.

What Is LawnPro

LawnPro is a cloud-based software designed to streamline the management of lawn care businesses. From invoicing to client communication and time tracking, Lawn Pro helps business owners tackle important tasks quickly and easily.

The software can even sync with your QuickBooks for lawn service account to save time and reduce the risk of error.

The feature-rich software is available for Android and iOS devices.

LawnPro Features

Lawn Pro has an extensive list of features that makes it easy to run your business and automate tasks that eat up your time.

Here’s what you can do with Lawn Pro.

Create Invoices and Estimates

Lawn Pro allows you to create customized invoices and estimates quickly and easily without ever leaving the application.

• Add your logo and custom messages for a more professional look.
• Add optional items to your estimates.
• You can transform an estimate into an invoice with the click of a button.
• Visits can be scheduled automatically once an estimate is accepted.
• If customers don’t respond to estimates, you can automatically send follow-up emails and texts.

Invoices can be sent automatically to customers via email, and customers can make their payments right online for added convenience. You can also add due dates to your invoices, and if customers do not pay on time, late fees are added automatically along with a reminder invoice.

Lawn Pro also acts as an email portal, allowing you to send customized messages to customers for their:

• Estimates
• Invoices
• Documents, and more

You can easily create email templates, and Lawn Pro will fill in your customer’s information automatically. Personalized service is valued by customers, and this gives Lawn Pro an advantage in this department.

Customer Portal

Lawn Pro allows you to create a customer portal, allowing them to:

• Pay invoices
• View and accept invoices
• Request service, and more

All customers have to do is click the link on your website or the link you send with your invoices.

Sync with QuickBooks Online

Lawn Pro can sync with QuickBooks Online, allowing you to send the information from the software program to your QuickBooks account automatically.

Get Paid Quickly and Easily

With Lawn Pro, you can save customer credit cards and charge them right from one single screen.

Customers can make deposits, pay invoices and more. Saving cards allow you to charge customers every month once the work is complete without having to take extra steps.

Send Invoices Automatically

If you have monthly customers, Lawn Pro allows you to send invoices automatically each month through email, text message or regular mail. Simply choose which day of the month to send the invoice.

Measure and Estimate Pricing Remotely

With Lawn Pro, you can measure and estimate costs for jobs without ever having to leave the office. Measure properties using satellite imagery and save measurements for things like mulch beds or fence lines.

All of this information is stored with the property and customer to make future jobs easier to estimate.

Attach Before and After Photos

Lawn Pro’s robust invoicing system allows you to attach photos to invoices when proof of labor is required.

Along with before and after photos, you can also attach other things, like gift cards or coupons.

Communicate with Customers, Employees and Crews

Communication is the key to success when running a lawn service business. Crews and employees need a simple way to communicate with each other, but you also need a streamlined way to communicate with clients.

Lawn Pro makes it easy to manage your communication.

• Text customers to let them know you’re on your way.
• Text employees to let them know additional stops have been added to their schedules.

Create lists of customers to text, and Lawn Pro will handle the rest.

Track Your Time for Each Job

Lawn Pro’s time tracking features allow you to track:

• Time worked
• Breaks
• Driving

You can also choose to require employees to clock in before they can view their schedule.

Plan Routes for Jobs

View maps and routes for customer jobs with the click of a button. Lawn Pro also allows you to update schedules and job notes in real-time. Additionally, you can track mileage right through the software based on your routes.

Organize Customer Properties

Lawn Pro also acts as a customer management system, allowing you to organize customers and their properties easily. Add as many properties as you like to each owner – there are no limits.

Each property is managed separately for convenience. You can add default services or individual services and their prices to each property. When the work is done, you can invoice for all of the customer’s properties or each one individually.

Easy Scheduling

Creating and managing a schedule for your lawn care business can be a hassle, but Lawn Pro offers a solution. Their calendar-like scheduling feature allows you to:

• Schedule single visits to properties
• Create repeating visits for monthly or recurring customers
• View and print the schedule by day, week or month
• Sort schedules by customers, employees and more
• Print schedule lists for employees
• Drag-and-drop appointments if rescheduling is necessary

You can also add a single customer or a group of customers to your schedule with the click of a button.

Equipment Maintenance Tracking

With Lawn Pro, you can create an inventory of your equipment and receive reminders when it’s time to service them.

With this feature, you can:

• View all of the information about your equipment in one place
• View the equipment’s service history
• Track repair and maintenance for each individual piece of equipment

Know when it’s time to invest in new equipment or when it’s time to perform routine maintenance with helpful alerts from Lawn Pro.

Track Expenses

Lawn Pro makes it easy to track all of your expenses right through the app.

If you currently use multiple apps for expense tracking, Lawn Pro can save you time by allowing you to handle all of your tracking needs from one centralized location.

With Lawn Pro, you can view and manage your expenses by:

• Category
• Date range
• Vendor
• Equipment, and more

You can even print annual expense reports with one simple click.

Expenses can include the following information:

• Descriptions for easy reference
• Categories to keep your expenses organized
• Total amount and how much was paid (whether you paid in full, or only made a partial payment)
• Dates for easy tracking

All expenses can be viewed on a clean, organized table so that you can see everything at a glance.

Automate Tasks

With Lawn Pro, you can automate tasks to save time, improve communication and enhance customer service.

A variety of tasks can be automated, including:

• Sending emails or texts to customers before visiting their property for service
• Sending emails or texts to customers when service is complete
• Sending reminders when invoices are due
• Sending emails or texts when new property visits are scheduled
• Sending emails or texts when estimates are accepted or declined by customers

These are just a few of the many automation options available with Lawn Pro.

Integrate with Other Software

Lawn Pro integrates with more than 4,000 other software programs through Zapier. Integration with other platforms allows you to maximize the use and benefits of Lawn Pro.

To take advantage of this integration option, you will need to have a Zapier account.

Who is LawnPro For?

Lawn Pro’s features are beneficial for a wide range of lawn-care related businesses, including:

• Landscaping
• Lawns
• Irrigation
• Aeration and seeding
• Fertilizers
• Holiday decorations

Lawn Pro says its application is also used by businesses in the following industries:

• Pressure washing
• Pool care
• Catering
• Septics
• Snow removal
• Bounce houses

Most service-related businesses can make use of Lawn Pro due to the ability to organize appointments, customers and your time.

How Much is LawnPro?

Lawn Pro is a feature-rich application, but how much will it cost you? Will it fit into your lawn care business’s budget?

First of all, Lawn Pro does have a Free tier option, which offers the ability to:

• Track up to 50 customers
• Email invoices and estimates to customers
• Customize invoices and estimates with your logo
• Track the time spent at each job
• Create two employee logins
• Access and offer the client portal for easy customer payments
• Allow customers to pay online
• Track expenses

Businesses can sign up for a free account without having to provide credit card information. Quick and easy sign-up allows these businesses to start enjoying the benefits of Lawn Pro without even needing a bank account or credit card to get started.

Lawn Pro software pricing is broken down into monthly and annual options for each tier. We greatly appreciate the clear, up-front pricing options.

Tier 1 $29/month or $297 per year

• Unlimited customers
• Time tracking for jobs
• Email estimates and invoices
• Customize invoices and estimates
• 2 employee logins
• Access to the client portal and the ability for customers to pay online
• Expense tracking
• Client login widget

Tier 2 $49/month or $490 per year

• Unlimited customers
• Time tracking for jobs and employees (pro version)
• Email estimates and invoices
• Customize invoices and estimates
• 5 employee logins
• Access to the client portal and the ability for customers to pay online
• Expense tracking
• Client login widget
• Route tracking
• Backups
• Add optional items to your estimates

Tier 3 $79/month or $790 per year

• Unlimited customers
• Time tracking for jobs and employees (pro version)
• Email estimates and invoices
• Customize invoices and estimates
• 7 employee logins
• Access to the client portal and the ability for customers to pay online
• Expense tracking
• Client login widget
• Route tracking
• Backups
• Add optional items to your estimates
• 2-way texting
• Automatic credit card charging for customers with cards on file
• Customers can pay via ACH
• 2-way QuickBooks sync

The Tier 3 option offers the most features and allows you to maximize the benefits of what Lawn Pro offers. However, lawn care businesses with lower budgets can still take advantage of the software and its core features that streamlines administrative tasks.

For new businesses, the free tier is ideal and provides a wealth of features at no cost to users. As the business grows, they can switch to higher tiers with more robust features.

Pros

• Easy to use with a user-friendly interface
• Free option for new businesses
• Three tiers of pricing
• Streamlines administrative tasks
• Robust features to save time and automate tasks
• Free tier does not require a credit card

Cons

• No desktop app available – only web, Android and iOS
• Add-on options (such as enhanced maps and routing, and detailed time tracking) come at an additional cost
• Some valuable features are only available on the higher tiers

Lawn Pro is a robust software application for those running lawn care-related businesses. The platform serves as an all-in-one solution for managing your business, and its ability to sync with QuickBooks allows you to manage finance-related tasks as well, easily.

Additionally, Lawn Pro has an extensive help section that offers tutorials and detailed information on how each feature works. For those who are new to the software, the help section is a valuable resource.

Generally, users have high praise for Lawn Pro. They claim that it saves them time, reduces the risk of errors and helps them stay organized. The free tier option offers excellent value for new businesses.

To mitigate these risks, tree service businesses should have adequate insurance. Let’s look at the types of insurance tree service businesses should have and their coverage options.

What Insurance Should A Tree Service Have?

Every tree service business should have insurance. The risks are too high to go without adequate coverage. These businesses are often called upon to carry out dangerous work, such as:

• Clearing trees for new construction
• Clearing fallen trees caused by storms or from railroad tracks
• Removing tree stumps
• Trimming bushes and branches near street signs and power lines

Any one of these activities can easily result in severe injuries, liability claims and damage to other people’s property. For tree services that want to obtain government contracts, insurance is a standard requirement.

Tree Trimmer Insurance Coverage Options

There are several types of tree service insurance that every tree service should obtain.

General Liability

Every business should have general liability insurance, which covers:

• Personal injury
• Bodily injury
• Property damage

If someone is hurt or property is damaged while performing your services, liability will cover the cost of medical care and/or repairing or replacing property.

Professional Liability

Many tree companies also provide consulting services or tree care advice. Professional liability insurance will provide coverage for claims of negligence, bad advice or poorly recommended services that lead to damages or losses for the customer.

Loss of Income Insurance

Loss of income insurance, also known as business interruption insurance, provides coverage if your business is forced to shut down because of a covered peril. This policy will cover your ongoing costs as well as employee pay if you need to operate out of a temporary location.

Commercial Property Insurance

If your business operates out of a physical location, then you’ll need commercial property insurance.

Commercial property insurance will protect covered assets if they are damaged or lost in a fire, natural disaster or theft. These assets can include:

• Inventory
• Furniture
• Equipment
• Computers

Additional coverage may be required for items that aren’t attached to the building, such as signs or fences.

If your tree service is a mobile business, you likely don’t need this coverage.

Workers’ Compensation

If you have employees, you will need workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ comp is required in all states except Texas. But even if your business is in the Lone Star State, it’s in your best interest to obtain this insurance. Otherwise, you may be liable for injuries if a worker is hurt on the job.

Workers’ compensation will cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation

Along with injuries that occur while on the job, workers’ comp will also cover work-related:

• Illnesses
• Repetitive injuries
• Disability

It also protects against lawsuits from injured employees. If an employee is killed while performing work-related duties, a death benefit will be paid to the family.

Inland Marine Insurance

Tree service businesses use a lot of equipment in their day-to-day operations. Inland marine insurance covers equipment and cargo that’s transported between job sites. A conventional commercial or personal auto insurance policy generally does not cover any tools or equipment that are not attached to the vehicle itself. Having this coverage will protect these items.

Along with the tools you transfer in your vehicles or trucks, it will also cover:

• Equipment and tools stored on a job site
• Moveable property
• Property you borrow or have temporarily in your care

Your tools are vital to the operation of your tree service business, so it’s important to ensure they are covered if they are damaged or lost in an unforeseen event.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If you or your employees use vehicles to travel from one job site to the next, you will need a commercial auto policy.

Personal auto insurance policies will likely not cover an accident that occurred while engaging in commercial activity.

Commercial auto insurance will provide you with coverage for vehicles that you use to get to and from job sites and/or your office.

A wide range of vehicles can be covered through your policy, including:

• Pickup trucks
• Box trucks
• Cargo vans
• SUVs

A typical policy will include the following coverages:

• Liability
• Third-party bodily injury
• Personal injury protection (PIP)
• Property damage
• Uninsured and underinsured
• Comprehensive
• Collision

These are standard coverages for a commercial auto policy, but additional policies may be available to cover your unique risks.

Business Owners Policy (BOP)

A BOP is something to consider for a small business owner because it can save you a lot of money in the long run. This type of policy combines:

1. General liability insurance
2. Commercial property insurance

Additionally, a BOP will often include business interruption insurance, too. Combining multiple insurance policies into one can save you a lot of money on your policy and also make it easier if you have to make a claim.

Utilizing one insurer for all three of these types of insurance means dealing with one point of contact if something goes wrong.

How Much Is Insurance For Tree Service Companies?

Tree service insurance costs vary from one location to another and the size of your business. A standard $1 million policy may cost $400 – $1,500 per year for general liability. However, you’ll need multiple forms of insurance for tree removal:

• General Liability: You can expect to pay $400 to $1,500 for this type of insurance, but prices may be higher for larger tree services with a big workforce.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Costs for professional liability can vary from $20 to $60 per month for a small business.
• Commercial Property Insurance: You may or may not need this type of insurance, but you can expect to pay $60 – $70 per month with a deductible of $1,000 and limits of $60,000.
• Business Interruption Insurance: Costs for business interruption can range from $40 to $150+ per month. The larger your business grows and the more revenue you generate, the higher these overall costs will be.
• Workers’ Compensation: The premiums you pay for workers’ compensation vary greatly and may cost as little as $40 a month. A general rule of thumb, which may or may not be higher or lower, is that for every $100 you spend in payroll, allot $1 for workers’ comp.
• Inland Marine Insurance: Median cost is based on how much property is covered under the insurance. For example, $10,000 in coverage may cost you $20 – $25 a month. However, $100,000 in coverage is $80 – $100 per month.
• Commercial Auto Insurance: Policy limits dictate the overall cost of premiums for your commercial auto insurance. You likely need a $1 million policy limit, and you’ll pay $150 – $200 a month in some states for this policy. If you’re in a major metropolitan area, you may pay two or three times this cost.
• Business Owner’s Policy: Small businesses may have an easier time with a BOP policy because it covers multiple items, such as business interruption and liability. These policies are ideal for owners that are out in the field and may cost $500 to $5,000 per year, depending on multiple factors.

Reducing your tree service insurance costs is possible because you can control some of the cost factors, namely:

• Deductible. If you have a higher deductible, you’ll pay lower premiums.
• Limits. Lower limits allow for less risk to the insurance company and lower premiums as a result.

Additional factors that are considered, and many cannot be controlled, are: the number of employees, location and limits. If you have a lot of past claims, this may mean you’re a higher risk to insure and lead to higher premiums.

Bundling your insurance under one company is often the best solution to save money and make it easier to manage claims.

Do you need tree service insurance and want the best price possible? Fill out the quote form below to receive quotes from some of the best insurers in the industry.