Landscaping Contracts: 17 Proven Ways to Win Year-Round

Landscaping Contracts: 17 Proven Ways to Win Year-Round

Landscaping contracts are the difference between “busy” and “bankable.” One-off jobs feel good, but they leave you gambling on weather, referrals, and whatever the market coughs up next week. A contract puts your revenue on rails, and it also makes staffing, equipment planning, and route scheduling way easier.

This guide shows you how to win summer and winter work as one connected system. You’ll build proof, package smart, price with a spine, and lock in renewal habits—plus you’ll get Ontario-friendly contract templates you can copy/paste (and then have reviewed).

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🌿 Why landscaping contracts win year-round

If you want stability, you need recurring revenue. That means selling outcomes, not tasks.

Here’s what contracts do that “per job” never will:

• Predict cash flow so you can hire earlier and buy supplies before prices spike.
• Reduce marketing stress because renewals become your #1 lead source.
• Improve service quality because repeat visits reveal what a property actually needs.
• Raise your average ticket since bundles beat “mow only” buyers every time.

Also, contracts protect your time. Instead of chasing 20 small clients who pay late, you can land 5–10 serious clients who value reliability.

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📸 Proof and presence that sells landscaping contracts

People don’t “believe” claims. They believe evidence. So your marketing should look like a case file, not a flyer.

Build a portfolio that closes deals:

• Before/after photos from the same angle
• Short captions that explain the problem and the fix
• Seasonal proof: spring cleanup, summer maintenance, fall prep, winter response
• Commercial proof: lots, walkways, entrances, loading areas, fire routes

Make case studies simple and persuasive: landscaping contracts

• Property type (residential, plaza, condo, medical office)
• Scope (what you did)
• Response standard (how fast you showed up)
• Result (safer access, better curb appeal, fewer complaints)

If you have zero “pro” photos, start now. Your phone is fine. Bad lighting and messy framing are not.

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🌐 Local SEO to rank for landscaping contracts in Ontario

Your website should do one job: turn local searches into booked site visits.

A professional site matters because it signals “real business,” especially for commercial snow and ice. In addition, it helps you rank for local intent searches like:

• “snow removal contract near me”
• “commercial snow plowing [city]”
• “property maintenance contract Ontario”

Website must-haves: landscaping contracts

• Service pages for summer landscaping and winter snow/ice
• A pricing approach page (not necessarily full prices)
• Insurance/WSIB section (trust builder)
• Quote form + click-to-call
• Testimonials with the city name

Add a Q&A section right on your service pages. It reduces tire-kickers and increases conversion because it answers objections before they email.

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🧰 Build a full-year service menu for landscaping contracts

You’re not selling “mowing.” You’re selling “a property that looks great and stays safe.”

Summer / growing season services:

• Weekly or biweekly mowing
• Edging and trimming
• Weed control and bed maintenance
• Pruning and hedge shaping
• Mulch refresh, planting, irrigation checks

Fall services:

• Leaf removal and disposal
• Garden winter prep
• Final cut and aeration
• Gutter cleaning (easy add-on)

Winter services:

• Snow plowing and snow blowing
• Sidewalk clearing
• Ice control (salt/sand)
• Priority clearing for entrances and accessible routes

This “total exterior maintenance” language is what property managers want. It simplifies their vendor list.

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📦 Bundles and upsells that protect landscaping contracts

Bundles are how you stop competing on price. They also make renewals automatic because the client feels covered.

Here’s a clean way to structure it:

Discounts that work (without killing margin):

• 5–10% off for annual prepay
• Price lock for multi-year term
• Free fall cleanup if they sign before a deadline

However, don’t discount blindly. Discount only when it improves cash flow or reduces churn.

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🧾 Snow removal contract types and triggers

Snow work gets messy when the contract is vague. So define the pricing model and the trigger like your profit depends on it—because it does.

Common contract types:

• Per-push / per-visit: client pays each time you clear
• Per-event: client pays per storm event (define “event” clearly)
• Seasonal: one price for the season (predictable for both sides)

Seasonal contracts often sell best for clients who hate surprise invoices. They also stabilize your winter revenue.

Triggers (pick one and define it):

• 1 inch (≈2.5 cm) for residential sidewalks
• 2 inches (≈5 cm) for most driveways/lots
• “Continuous service” during heavy storms (site checks every X hours)

Service standards you should write into the deal:

• What areas are included (lot, lanes, walkways, stairs, entrances)
• Where snow is pushed (on-site stacking vs haul-away)
• Ice control method (salt, sand, mix)
• Response time language (“within X hours after trigger”)

On safety: slip-and-fall risk is real, so you must treat ice control like a core product, not an optional afterthought. Ontario’s Occupiers’ Liability framework puts duties on occupiers to keep premises reasonably safe.

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💵 Pricing, discounts, and payment plans

Pricing is where most contractors sabotage themselves. They either guess, copy a competitor, or underbid to “get in.” That last one is the fast lane to burnout.

Price from costs upward:

• Labour (including payroll burden)
• Equipment time + maintenance + depreciation
• Fuel
• Salt/materials
• Insurance
• Admin time (calls, scheduling, invoicing)

Then add profit. Not “hope.” Profit.

Helpful reference guides can keep your pricing grounded, especially when you build snow estimates and bids.

Flexible payment plans clients like:

• Seasonal split payments (Nov 1 / Jan 1)
• Monthly auto-billing
• Prepay discount for annual bundles

If you do seasonal snow, protect yourself with an “extreme weather” clause (more on that below).

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📑 Write scopes that prevent “scope creep”

Scope creep is when the client slowly adds work without paying for it. It happens because your contract leaves wiggle room.

Your scope should clearly define:

• Exact service areas (include a site map if possible)
• Frequency (weekly mowing, “as needed” pruning is vague)
• Disposal terms (leaf haul away included or extra?)
• Ice control: included applications vs additional applications
• Haul-away snow: included or billed separately

Extreme weather clause (simple and fair):

• Define a “severe event” (ex: snowfall above X inches / cm, drifting, ice storm)
• State what changes (extra visits, extra salt, haul-away)
• State how it’s billed (hourly, per extra visit, or pre-agreed add-on)

This clause is what keeps a “bad winter” from becoming a financial disaster.

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🤝 Marketing engine to win landscaping contracts

Marketing that works is boring. It’s consistent, local, and based on trust.

Where contracts come from:

• Property managers (gold)
• Condo boards
• Plazas and strip malls
• Medical buildings
• Churches and schools
• Landlords with multiple doors

Networking that actually produces leads:

• Chamber of Commerce events
• BOMA-type property management circles (where available)
• Local builder meetups
• Community sponsorships (small but visible)

Cold outreach that isn’t cringe:

• Build a list of 50 targets
• Email: 5 lines, clear offer, ask for a site walk
• Follow up in 3–5 days
• Then call
• Then visit (commercial sites respond well to face-to-face)

Start early for winter. Many contractors begin outreach well before the first big storms to “beat the rush,” which matches what experienced operators recommend.

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🎁 Referral and loyalty programs

Referrals are cheaper than ads, and they convert faster because trust transfers.

Simple referral offer ideas:

• $50–$150 credit per signed referral (scale to contract value)
• Free spring cleanup add-on
• Free salt application package upgrade

Retention beats acquisition:

• Offer renewal reminders 60–90 days before season starts
• Provide a “property report” once per season (quick notes + photos)
• Fix small issues fast (clients remember speed more than perfection)

Also, reward consistency. A 3-year client should never pay the same as a brand-new client who might churn.

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🧑‍💼 Customer service systems that win renewals

Customer service is your real competitive advantage, especially in winter.

Non-negotiables:

• Answer calls fast or return same day
• Confirm service windows before storms
• Send status updates during major events
• Document service (photos + timestamps for commercial)

Use a CRM if you can. Even a simple pipeline prevents leads from leaking away.

Pro move: after every major snowfall, send a short message:
“Cleared entrances + walkways. Ice control applied. Reply if you need extra attention.”
That one text reduces complaints and increases renewals.

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🤖 Tech leverage: CRM, scheduling, routing, weather monitoring

Technology won’t save a broken business. However, it will multiply a good one.

Best places to use tech:

• Route optimization (cuts fuel and overtime)
• Scheduling software (reduces missed visits)
• Automated reminders (renewals, seasonal upsells)
• Weather monitoring widgets (helps clients book earlier)

In addition, put a basic weather widget on your site and pair it with a “Book before the storm” message. It sounds simple because it is. It works because urgency is real.

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🧂 Equipment readiness and salt supply planning

Winter clients don’t care about excuses. They care that the lot is clear.

Equipment trust checklist:

• Preventative maintenance before the season
• Backup plan for breakdowns (subcontractor or spare unit)
• Proper tools for delicate areas (don’t destroy curbs and entrances)

Salt supply plan:

• Buy early (bulk if possible)
• Lock a supplier relationship
• Store safely and legally
• Track usage per site

Some suppliers promote bulk road salt delivery across North America, which is the kind of “no surprises” supply chain you want in winter.

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⚖️ Ontario legal, safety, and insurance essentials

This section is practical info, not legal advice. For contracts, pay a lawyer once and save yourself ten headaches later.

1) Consumer Protection Act (Ontario)
If you serve residential consumers, Ontario’s Consumer Protection Act, 2002 can apply to consumer agreements and requires clear, understandable terms and certain disclosures.
That’s another reason to keep your contract plain-language and specific.

2) Occupational Health and Safety (Ontario)
If you have workers, Ontario’s OHSA duties around worker safety, training, and hazard management matter—especially in winter conditions.

3) Slip-and-fall and documentation
Ontario’s Occupiers’ Liability framework is why documentation matters. Clear triggers, timestamps, and service logs help protect everyone.
Also, Ontario has specific notice considerations around snow/ice-related claims that lawyers frequently flag, so don’t wing it—ask counsel and keep records.

4) Insurance
At minimum, be ready to show:

• General liability coverage
• Vehicle/commercial auto coverage
• WSIB or equivalent coverage as required for your operation

If a prospect asks for certificates and you hesitate, you lose the deal.

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📝 Ontario-ready contract templates (copy/paste)

Use these as starting templates, then customize and have them reviewed for your business.

Template 1: Seasonal Snow Removal Contract (Seasonal / Flat Rate)

Purpose: For clients who want full winter coverage with predictable cost.

Business Information
Company Name: __________________________
Contact Person: _________________________
Email: _________________________________
Phone: _________________________________

Client Information
Client Name: ____________________________
Service Address: _________________________
Email: _________________________________
Phone: _________________________________

Service Period
Start Date: _____________________________
End Date: ______________________________

Scope of Services (example list)
The Contractor agrees to perform the following services:

• Snow plowing of driveways and parking lots
• Snow blowing of sidewalks and walkways
• Ice removal and application of salt/sand

Trigger and Timing
Services will be performed promptly after each snowfall accumulation of 2 inches (≈5 cm) or more, unless otherwise specified.

Payment Terms
Total Seasonal Cost: $_____________________
Payment Schedule: ________________________
Payment Method(s): _______________________

Insurance and Liability
The Contractor shall maintain liability insurance and workers’ coverage as required.

Termination Clause
Either party may terminate with ____ days written notice. Early termination terms: ______________________.

Signatures
Client: __________________ Date: _________
Contractor: ______________ Date: _________

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Template 2: Per-Event Snow Removal Contract

Purpose: For clients who want to pay only when service happens.

Event Definition
An “event” is defined as snowfall accumulation of 2 inches (≈5 cm) or more (or: __________).

Service Fee
Client agrees to pay $________ per event.

Payment Terms (example clause)
Payment is due within 7 days of service completion.

(Include the same Scope / Areas / Insurance / Termination / Signatures as Template 1.)

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Template 3: Residential Snow Removal Contract

Purpose: Homeowners who need driveway + walkways.

Scope of Services (example clause)
The Contractor will provide snow plowing for the driveway and snow shoveling for walkways. Services will be performed after each snowfall exceeding 1 inch (≈2.5 cm).

Payment Options
Monthly Rate: $________ / month
OR Seasonal Rate: $________ / season

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Template 4: Commercial Snow Removal Contract

Purpose: For lots, sidewalks, entrances, drive lanes, and ice management.

Scope of Services (example clause)
The Contractor will provide snow plowing for all parking lots, snow blowing for all sidewalks and walkways, and ice management services. Services will be conducted to support safety and accessibility during business hours.

Commercial Payment Example
Annual/Seasonal Rate: $________
Installments: $________ (Date ) and $_____ (Date ___)

Early Termination (example)
Either party may terminate with 60 days’ written notice. Early termination fee (if any): $________.

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Dispute Resolution Clause (example)

In the event of a dispute, both parties agree to first attempt resolution through negotiation. If unresolved, the parties may use mediation and/or arbitration in Ontario.

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Add this to every template: “Service Areas”

Attach a simple site diagram and label:

• Parking areas
• Walkways
• Entrances
• Fire route / loading (if applicable)
• Snow storage location

It prevents arguments later.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What’s the fastest way to start landing landscaping contracts?
Build one strong “Year-Round” bundle and pitch property managers first. They buy reliability, not hype.

Q2: Should I offer seasonal snow or per-push pricing?
Offer both. Seasonal stabilizes your income, while per-push attracts clients who want flexibility.

Q3: What trigger depth should I use?
Residential often uses 1 inch (≈2.5 cm). Commercial commonly uses 2 inches (≈5 cm). Pick one and define it clearly.

Q4: Do I need a clause for extreme weather?
Yes. Otherwise one brutal winter can wipe out your profit.

Q5: How do I stop clients from adding “little extras” for free?
Write a tight scope and price add-ons in advance (hourly or per service line).

Q6: How early should I start selling winter contracts?
Earlier than you think. Serious clients choose vendors before the first major storms.

Q7: What should I show on my website to increase trust?
Photos, reviews, insurance readiness, and clear service standards. Don’t bury your phone number.

Q8: Should I stock salt in bulk?
If you do commercial work, yes. Bulk supply reduces shortages and surprise pricing.

Q9: Are landscaping contracts worth discounting for?
Only if the discount improves cash flow, reduces churn, or increases total contract value.

Q10: What’s the most important part of a snow removal contract?
Service areas + trigger + response time + ice control. Vague contracts cause disputes.

Q11: Do Ontario laws affect my residential contracts?
They can. Keep consumer-facing agreements clear and specific, and get legal review.

Q12: How do I protect myself on slip-and-fall claims?
Document service, follow your trigger rules, and keep logs/photos. Also, get legal guidance on notice and liability issues.

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🔗 Sources & References

• Government of Ontario (e-Laws) — Consumer Protection Act, 2002. (Canada Salt)
• Government of Ontario — Your rights under the Consumer Protection Act. (Ontario)
• Government of Ontario (e-Laws) — Occupiers’ Liability Act. (Canada Salt)
• Government of Ontario (e-Laws) + Ontario.ca — Occupational Health and Safety Act and general OHSA guidance. (WSPS)
• practicePRO — Ontario slip-and-fall notice considerations (snow/ice). (Siskinds Law Firm)

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Conclusion

If you want consistent growth, stop treating summer and winter like separate businesses. Build one offer, sell one year-round plan, and use tight contracts so your work stays profitable.