How to Choose a Lawn Care Company in Madison WI

Choosing the right lawn care company in Madison can feel overwhelming — there are dozens of options ranging from solo operators on Facebook Marketplace to national franchises. Here's how to separate the professionals from the amateurs and find a service you can trust with your property.

1. Verify Insurance and Licensing

This is non-negotiable. Any legitimate lawn care company should carry general liability insurance (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation coverage. If a worker is injured on your property or a mower throws a rock through your window, you need to know you're protected. Ask to see a certificate of insurance — reputable companies will provide it without hesitation.

Red Flag: If a company hesitates when you ask about insurance, or says they "don't need it," run. You could be personally liable for any damage or injuries on your property.

2. Check Reviews and Reputation

Look for companies with 4.5+ stars on Google with at least 50 reviews. Read the reviews carefully — look for patterns. A few negative reviews are normal, but consistent complaints about no-shows, poor communication, or damage are serious red flags.

Also check:

• Google Business Profile: Are they responding to reviews? Active businesses engage with customers.
• Nextdoor: Ask your neighbors for recommendations — local word-of-mouth is gold in Dane County.
• BBB: Check for complaints and resolution history.

3. Get Written Quotes

Never accept a verbal-only quote. A professional company will provide a written estimate that specifies exactly what's included, the price, frequency, and any exclusions. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true — they usually are.

4. Ask About Consistency

One of the biggest complaints about lawn care companies is inconsistency — different crews each week who don't know your property. Ask:

• Will the same crew service my property each visit?
• Do you have a quality check process?
• What's your communication policy if there's a schedule change?

5. Evaluate Their Range of Services

A full-service company that offers mowing, fertilization, aeration, gutter cleaning, and snow removal is more convenient than juggling multiple contractors. They also understand how each service affects the others — your fertilization company should know your mowing schedule.

6. Understand Pricing

Madison lawn care pricing varies widely. Here are typical ranges for 2026:

• Weekly mowing: $35–$65/visit (depends on lot size)
• Fertilization program: $45–$75/application (4–5 apps/year)
• Core aeration: $85–$150
• Fall cleanup: $150–$350
• Gutter cleaning: $95–$175

7. Trust Your Gut

How does the company communicate? Do they respond quickly? Do they show up when they say they will? The way a company handles the sales process tells you a lot about how they'll handle your property.

8. Need a Recommendation?

TotalGuard Yard Care is a locally owned Madison company with 127 Google reviews at 4.9 stars, $1M general liability insurance, and a same-crew guarantee. We provide mowing, fertilization, gutter cleaning, snow removal, and complete seasonal services across Dane County. Get a free quote today.