Written by: Emily Joswiak • March 20, 2025• Home

The Hidden Costs of DIY Landscaping for Commercial Properties

More businesses need to be aware of the hidden costs of landscaping their own property. This guide will inform you on what these DIY projects may entail.

A top-down view of a landscaping professional mowing a lawn. He is mowing right up against the edge of the grass.

Maintaining a well-groomed landscape is critical for commercial properties. It creates a welcoming environment and leaves a lasting impression on clients, employees, and customers. However, while the idea of taking a DIY approach to landscaping may seem like an affordable and straightforward solution for a commercial property, the hidden costs can quickly add up. Here’s what businesses should consider before taking on such a task themselves.

The Initial Financial Investment

At first glance, DIY landscaping may appear to be cost-effective. After all, avoiding professional service fees should save money, right? Not quite. The necessary tools and equipment, such as lawnmowers, trimmers, and irrigation systems, alone can cost thousands of dollars. Factor in soil, mulch, fertilizers, seeds, and plants, and that “affordable” plan quickly balloons into a significant upfront investment. For highly visible areas or specialty features, these costs can be even higher.

Beyond purchasing supplies, there’s also the investment of time. Businesses that dedicate time to landscaping duties find that they have less time available for primary responsibilities, which can cause hidden productivity losses. One of the major advantages of hiring a professional landscaper is that you don’t have to worry about wasting your company’s time on such projects.

The Struggle of Keeping It Looking Good

Any landscaping project, no matter how simple or complex, requires ongoing maintenance to stay vibrant. This is especially true for commercial properties, where outdoor spaces experience higher levels of wear and tear. Irrigation systems may need repairs, weeds will inevitably grow, and plants require consistent trimming, watering, and care.

DIY efforts often lack the expertise needed to address these challenges effectively. For example, improper watering or choosing the wrong plant species can result in dead lawns and landscapes prone to disease. Additionally, without a dedicated schedule, landscaping maintenance can fall by the wayside, creating a neglected and unprofessional appearance.

Professional landscapers often implement eco-friendly, efficient maintenance solutions designed to keep properties looking their best year-round. Matching this consistency with DIY methods can prove to be incredibly challenging.

The Potential of Legal and Liability Issues

A lesser-known hidden cost of DIY landscaping for a commercial property is navigating the potential legal implications. Landscaping often requires adherence to local building codes, zoning laws, and regulations related to water usage, pesticide usage, and plant choices. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines or legal challenges for the business.

There’s also the risk of liability. For instance, poorly maintained paths, overgrown trees, or slippery surfaces could lead to accidents on the property. Such incidents can expose businesses to costly lawsuits and damage their reputation. Professional landscapers are typically well-versed in these compliance measures, ensuring your business avoids these risks.

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