Example of Landscaping Contract

Why Look For An Example of a Landscaping Contract?

Are you tired of miscommunications and payment delays in your landscaping projects?

A well-structured landscaping contract can be the difference between a smooth project and a costly headache.

In this article, we’ll show you an example of landscaping contract that you can use to protect your business, avoid disputes, and ensure your clients know exactly what to expect.

Important Sections of a Landscaping Contract

To protect your landscaping business and ensure smooth project execution, every contract should include a few key sections:

• Scope of Work: Clearly define all tasks involved to avoid misunderstandings.
• Payment Terms: Set specific deadlines for payments and outline methods.
• Project Timeline: Include a start and completion date, accounting for possible delays.
• Change Orders: Detail how extra client requests will be handled and billed.
• Liability & Insurance: Clarify coverage for accidents or damages.

For a detailed breakdown of these sections, check out our complete guide here: How to Write a Landscaping Contract or How To Write A Landscaping Maintenance Contract.

Example of Landscaping Contract – Hardscaping Job

To create our example of landscaping contract, let’s start with a scenario:

You’ve landed a client who wants a complete backyard transformation—hardscaping, softscaping, the works. They’re requesting a new stone patio, a fire pit, fresh landscaping with trees, flower beds, and an irrigation system. Without a clear contract, this could quickly turn into a headache with miscommunications, surprise costs, or missed deadlines.

Here’s what you’d include in your contract to keep everything crystal clear:

• Scope of Work: Specify that you’ll install a 400 sq. ft. stone patio and a gas-powered fire pit and plant five trees. Don’t forget to include setting up a drip irrigation system for the flower beds and trees.
• Materials: Mention that you’ll supply everything—from stone pavers to plants and irrigation materials—so there’s no confusion on who’s covering what.
• Payment Terms: The total cost will be $12,000, broken into three payments: one at the start, one mid-project, and the final upon completion.
• Warranties: Offer a one-year hardscaping warranty and a six-month plant health guarantee. This will give your client peace of mind and set clear boundaries on what you’ll cover after the project is completed.

Let’s put this all together into a contract example that covers you and keeps the client happy. Ready? Let’s dive into the mock contract.

Sample Contract For Landscaping Services

Here’s a sample contract for the landscaping and hardscaping project described in the real-life scenario. This example can be customized to fit your business and specific project needs:

LANDSCAPING CONTRACT

I. Parties Involved
This contract is made on [April 10, 2024], by and between:
Contractor: Elite Outdoor Designs, LLC
Client: John and Mary Williams, Homeowners

II. Scope of Work
The Contractor agrees to perform the following services at [Client’s Address]:

• Install a 400 sq. ft. stone patio with gray granite pavers.
• Install a gas-powered fire pit.
• Plant five trees (oak and maple) along the backyard perimeter.
• Create flower beds with a mix of annuals and perennials.
• Install a drip irrigation system for all trees and flower beds.

All work will be completed according to industry standards and in accordance with the project timeline.

III. Materials Provided by Contractor
The Contractor will supply the following materials:

• Stone pavers for the patio.
• Fire pit materials, including a gas-powered kit and stone cladding.
• Topsoil, mulch, and all plant materials (trees, annuals, and perennials).
• Drip irrigation materials, including pipes and control systems.

IV. Project Timeline

• Start Date: May 1, 2024
• Expected Completion: June 15, 2024
  (The timeline is subject to reasonable delays caused by weather or material shortages.)

V. Payment Terms
The total project cost is $12,000, divided as follows:

• $4,000 deposit due upon signing the contract (April 20, 2024).
• $4,000 due halfway through the project (June 1, 2024).
• $4,000 final payment due upon completion (June 15, 2024).

Payments can be made via check, credit card, or bank transfer. A late fee of 2% per week will be applied to overdue payments.

VI. Warranties
The Contractor provides a one-year warranty on the hardscaping work, covering defects in materials or workmanship.

• Plant Health Guarantee: A six-month guarantee is provided for tree and plant health, provided the client follows the recommended care instructions.
• The warranty does not cover damage caused by extreme weather, misuse, or neglect.

VII. Insurance
The Contractor carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation to cover any damages or accidents that occur on the job site. The client will not be held liable for any injuries to the contractor’s team during the project.

VIII. Termination Clause
Either party may terminate this contract with 15 days’ written notice. If the contract is terminated by the Client, they agree to pay for any services rendered up to the termination date.

IX. Change Orders
Any changes to the original scope of work must be requested in writing and approved by both parties. Changes may affect the project timeline and cost, and an additional estimate will be provided for any requested modifications.

X. Dispute Resolution
Any disputes arising from this contract will first be addressed through mediation. If mediation fails, both parties agree to submit the dispute to binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the [American Arbitration Association].

XI. Governing Law
This contract will be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the state of [Your State].

XII. Signatures
By signing below, both parties agree to the terms outlined in this contract:

Client Signature: _____________

Date:‍

Contractor Signature: ___________‍

Date: _

‍

This example of landscaping contract lays out clear expectations, responsibilities, and protections for both you and your client, ensuring the project runs smoothly and any potential disputes are managed effectively.

DISCLAIMER: For added assurance, it might be beneficial to have the contract reviewed by a legal professional who is familiar with construction and landscaping contracts in your jurisdiction. This can help identify any legal requirements specific to your area and ensure that the contract adequately protects both parties’ interests.

Download Our Free Landscaping Contract Template

Simplify your workflow by downloading our customizable Landscaping Contract Template. This ready-to-use template includes all the critical sections—scope of work, payment terms, warranties, and more—ensuring your contracts are professional, clear, and legally sound.

Whether you’re handling a small garden makeover or a large hardscaping project, this template will help you create agreements that protect your business and keep clients happy.

[Download the FREE Landscaping Contract Template here!]

*DISCLAIMER: This template is provided “as is” without any warranties or guarantees. We, the providers of this template, are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from its use.