3 Ways Choosing the Lowest Bid Could Cost You

When it comes to taking on a hardscape project in your yard, or looking for a new landscape service provider for your commercial property, we are well aware that cost can be a large consideration. Balancing a budget is equally as important for the modern family, as it is for a property manager ensuring that they find their client the most bang for their buck. Filtering through bids can be tough, and it can be hard to get the idea of a budget friendly crew out of the back of your mind. All of that saved money could be used in so many other ways, right? However, the problem with this is that a low bid is usually low for a reason. As is nearly universally true, “You get what you pay for.” Understanding your dilemma, we will discuss exactly why we think choosing the lowest bid isn’t always the way to go, and what your concerns should be.

Quality of Work

First and foremost, your number one priority when assessing bids from various landscaping companies is their quality of work. Oftentimes the reason a bid may be more expensive is the added cost of higher quality tools, more experienced foremen and crew, and taking the time in labor to make sure the project is done right. In our 65 years of experience we have often found the converse to be true. A lower bid often means cheaper tools, less experienced workers and an overall poorer quality. These companies are more likely to miss something, overlook a problem, or take shortcuts. Higher bids are generally going to have access to commercial grade equipment, a professional team, and management that prioritizes quality, preserving the reputation of the company.

Vague Contracts

Oftentimes, bids from landscaping companies looking to scoop up any work they can find by any means necessary will be the lowest. What comes along with this is vague promises, deadlines and an oversimplified bid that doesn’t truly capture the needs of your project. This “jack-of-all” trades mentality is essentially saying we will do whatever it takes to get your project. A good landscaping company will take the time to understand your needs, goals and concerns, and address them all in the bid, or following contract. Be skeptical of any bid that doesn’t lay everything out for you, as additional costs down the line could haunt you.

Poor Communication

Inevitably, at less reputable landscape companies, from where you will likely receive a lower bid, communication will not be satisfactory. Whether it be to disorganization or the lack of a dedicated contact, you may struggle to feel like a priority. Any landscape company that values you as a client, (especially commercially) will have no problem dedicating an account manager to your project or maintenance contract. When attacking any landscaping project, it is vital to have an individual who you can reach at any time with your concerns, ensuring a smooth process.

Do your Due Diligence

When assessing any landscaping company to determine the value of their bid, even Pezza Landscape, make sure you read their reviews, ask questions, and take your time in order to make the best decision possible for your project or maintenance contract. While we are confident we stand up to the test, this is the best practice, and we stand by that.

Pezza Landscape, Inc. is a full-service landscaping company proudly serving the greater Naperville area, including Warrenville, Wheaton, Winfield, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and the surrounding communities. Give us a call at (630) 393-7373 or visit our website to get in touch.