Why Splitting Irrigation and Landscaping Services Benefits Property Managers
Managing a property efficiently involves numerous considerations, with irrigation and landscaping being two of the most critical aspects. Traditionally, many property managers have opted to hire a single contractor for both services, enticed by the convenience and perceived cost savings. However, this approach can lead to several issues, especially when irrigation systems are treated as secondary or added services. Splitting these services between specialized companies can ensure both your landscaping and irrigation systems receive the attention they deserve, ultimately saving you money and preventing future problems.
The Myth of Cost Savings
Contractors often offer combined services at a lower overall cost, leveraging economies of scale and simplified billing. While this may seem beneficial, it’s essential to consider the hidden costs. An irrigation system that is not adequately managed can lead to inefficiencies, water waste, and costly repairs. When irrigation is an afterthought, the long-term expenses can far outweigh the initial savings from bundled services.
Irrigation as an Afterthought
In many cases, contractors who offer both landscaping and irrigation services prioritize landscaping due to its immediate visual impact and client satisfaction. Irrigation systems, on the other hand, are complex and require regular, specialized attention. When treated as an added service, irrigation maintenance can be neglected, leading to issues such as:
Over or Under-Watering: Without proper attention, irrigation systems can malfunction, leading to either water wastage or insufficient watering. This not only affects the health of your landscape but also increases water bills.
Leaks and Breakages: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to identify and fix leaks and breaks. If irrigation is not a primary focus, these issues can go unnoticed, causing significant damage and expense.
System Inefficiencies: Technological advancements in irrigation systems can drastically improve efficiency. However, if your contractor is not specialized in irrigation, they may not stay updated on the latest technologies and best practices.
Limited Irrigation Expertise
Multi-service landscape companies typically have only one to a handful of irrigation professionals within their organization. These professionals are tasked with managing the full portfolio of the company’s irrigation services, often spread too thin to provide the necessary attention to each system. This limitation can lead to:
Inadequate Maintenance: With a limited number of irrigation specialists, regular and thorough maintenance becomes challenging, increasing the likelihood of overlooked issues.
Delayed Repairs: Fewer specialists mean longer response times for repairs, potentially leading to extended periods of inefficiency and damage.
Lack of Specialization: Irrigation specialists within a landscaping company may not have the same level of expertise or access to the latest technologies as those working in a dedicated irrigation company.
The Benefits of Specialized Services
By separating irrigation and landscaping services, property managers can leverage the distinct expertise of specialized companies.
Expertise and Attention: Companies specializing in irrigation services have the expertise and dedication to manage your system effectively. They are more likely to conduct regular inspections, use advanced technologies, and provide tailored solutions that ensure optimal performance and water conservation.
Preventative Maintenance: Specialized irrigation companies focus on preventative maintenance, which helps in identifying and addressing potential issues before they become costly problems. This proactive approach can save you money in the long run.
Enhanced Landscaping Results: When a landscaping company can concentrate solely on the aesthetic and health aspects of your property, without the added responsibility of irrigation, they can provide better results. Similarly, an irrigation company can ensure your system supports the landscape effectively without compromising on quality.
A Personal Experience
When I was working for a very large multi-service landscape company, I noticed that we were only maintaining the systems we were responsible for at a bare minimum. Only repairing “front of house” problems while letting everything else go. It is true, I have heard a former boss say, “if they can’t see it from the road, don’t worry about it. You only have 4 hours to inspect the property and fix the problems. Get it done.” This approach led to numerous unseen issues that could have been prevented with proper attention and care. This experience underscored the importance of having specialized companies manage irrigation and landscaping separately to ensure thorough and dedicated service for each aspect.
What does this evaporate to?
While the convenience and initial cost savings of using a single contractor for both irrigation and landscaping services might be appealing, the long-term benefits of splitting these services are substantial. By engaging specialized companies for each service, you ensure that your property receives the expert attention it deserves. This approach not only improves the health and appearance of your landscape but also enhances the efficiency and longevity of your irrigation system, ultimately providing you with the best of both worlds.
Open and transparent communication is also key to achieving the best results. Conserva Irrigation of Ft. Lauderdale can assist with all of your irrigation needs. We love to educate and we are fantastic problem solvers.
