7 Must-Have Elements in a Commercial Landscape Maintenance Contract

5 min read
Landscape Tips
Published on
June 25, 2025

A well-maintained landscape is more than just aesthetics—it’s a reflection of your brand, property value, and customer experience. Whether you manage an HOA, business park, retail center, or municipal site, your landscape maintenance contract is the foundation of a successful partnership.

At Monarch Landscape Companies, we know that clarity, customization, and communication are key. Here’s what every commercial property manager should look for in a professional maintenance agreement.

1. Detailed Scope of Work

Your contract should outline exactly what services are included—and how often. A clearly defined scope helps avoid confusion, sets expectations, and ensures consistency.

Common inclusions:

  • Mowing, edging, and trimming
  • Fertilization and weed control
  • Seasonal pruning and plant care
  • Irrigation system checks
  • Trash and debris removal
  • Seasonal services like mulch, aeration, or color rotations

Pro Tip: Ask for a sample maintenance calendar customized to your property’s needs.

Property manager reviewing monthly landscape maintenance report

2. Site-Specific Customization

No two commercial properties are the same. Your landscape plan should reflect your unique plant material, sun exposure, foot traffic, and climate.

At Monarch, we walk every site and tailor our approach based on:

  • Regional climate and growing zones
  • Plant health and maturity
  • Usage patterns (high-traffic vs. ornamental)
  • Water access and irrigation zones
Professionally maintained commercial landscape with trimmed lawns and clean pathways

3. Clear Service Frequencies

Make sure your contract defines how often tasks will be performed—weekly, biweekly, monthly, or seasonally.

This ensures:

  • Accountability
  • Proper resource allocation
  • A consistent appearance year-round
Smart irrigation system being adjusted by commercial landscape technician

4. Irrigation System Monitoring & Repairs

Water management is crucial to landscape health and your budget. Your contract should include:

  • Seasonal irrigation checks
  • Smart irrigation adjustments
  • Emergency leak detection and repairs

Advanced providers, like Monarch, integrate smart irrigation technology to optimize water usage and prevent overwatering.

Landscape contractor performing site walkthrough for custom maintenance planning

5. Communication & Reporting

Professional landscape providers prioritize transparency. Look for a contract that includes:

  • Regular updates or monthly reports
  • A dedicated account manager
  • Emergency response protocols
  • Clear point-of-contact info

Monarch delivers monthly reports that detail completed work, upcoming tasks, and long-term recommendations.

Colorful seasonal flower beds installed at a commercial office property

6. Optional Enhancements & Add-On Services

Your agreement should outline available add-ons or upgrades to keep your site looking its best.

Common examples:

  • Seasonal flower installations
  • Tree care and arborist services
  • Landscape renovations
  • Snow removal (where applicable)

Knowing these options upfront helps you budget and plan throughout the year.

Certified arborist pruning trees on a commercial landscape site

7. Contract Terms & Exit Clauses

Always review the fine print. Make sure you understand:

  • Contract duration and renewal process
  • Cancellation terms and notice periods
  • Service guarantees or performance clauses

Bonus: Ask if your provider offers trial periods or satisfaction guarantees for added peace of mind.

Monarch Landscape crew performing routine landscape maintenance

Summary: Why It Matters

A strong commercial landscape maintenance contract protects your property, budget, and reputation. It ensures you get the quality of care your site deserves—on time, on budget, and tailored to your goals.

Ready to Improve Your Property’s Maintenance Plan?

Whether you’re building an RFP or evaluating your current service provider, Monarch Landscape Companies is here to help. Our local teams across the U.S. deliver region-specific expertise backed by national resources.

Request a Quote or schedule a free property walkthrough today.