Consumer Affairs Offers Lawncare Services Advice

ddb:lawn.pr 97-105 CONTACT: Sue Rogan, 301-217-7391

CONSUMER AFFAIRS OFFERS
LAWNCARE SERVICES ADVICE FOR RELEASE: April 7, 1997

With the return of the grass growing season, the Montgomery County Division of
Consumer Affairs (DCA) offers advice for consumers who are considering the use of a lawn
service company.
Lawn service companies generally provide a series of four or five service calls each
year to fertilize the lawn and treat it for the control of weeds, pests and disease. These
service calls begin in early spring and end in winter.
When choosing a lawn service company, DCA recommends that consumers:
o Make sure the firm is licensed. Maryland law requires all firms which inspect
lawns for pests or which apply pesticides to be licensed by the State Department of
Agriculture's Pesticide Regulation Section, (410) 841-5710.
o Check the company's complaint record. Call Consumer Affairs at (301) 217-7373
and the Better Business Bureau at (202) 393-8000.
o Check the company's references. Ask for names and numbers of customers in the
area so you can find out if these consumers are satisfied with the service.
o Make sure the company evaluates the condition of the lawn, including a soil test,
and treats it accordingly. Some firms give every lawn the same treatment.
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CONSUMER AFFAIRS OFFERS LAWN SERVICE TIPS 2-2-2-2

o Review the contract carefully. Be certain that you fully understand the services to
be provided, the amount of the contract, how this amount is to be paid, and the cancellation
terms. Most lawn care contracts provide for automatic renewal unless you specifically cancel
the contract in writing. Sign a contract for no longer than a year. Delete any automatic
renewal provisions.
o Find out if there are extra charges for treating special problems or for services such
as reseeding or aeration.
o Carefully read the terms and conditions of the warranty.
o Ask if any precautions should be taken to prevent harm to people and pets from
any pesticides that will be applied.
Consumers can receive independent advice about lawn care, plantings or information
on pesticides from the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service at
(301) 590-9650. If you have a problem with a lawn service company, call Consumer Affairs
at (301) 217-7373.
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