How to Start a Landscape Construction Business

Starting a landscape construction business can be a very profitable endeavor, but it takes a lot of hard work and organization to get started. 

Here are the eight steps you can take to get started on building your very own landscape construction business.

 

Eight Steps to Launching a New Landscape Construction Business

1. Name Your Landscape Construction Business

Give your landscape construction business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your landscape construction business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.

The main goal for naming your landscape construction business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so customers will want to do business with you.

 

2. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business

By incorporating your landscape construction business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.

The business structure you choose for your landscape construction business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.

Read our article comparing the most common landscape construction business structures.

 

3. Write a Landscape Construction Business Plan

All landscape construction business owners should develop a business plan. 

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.

Read our article about how to write a landscape construction business plan.

 

4. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses

There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your landscape construction business.

For example, if you will be operating a landscaping company that provides services to residential customers, you will likely need to obtain a business license from your city or county. 

You must also register your landscape construction business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.

Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.

Read our article about obtaining the proper landscape construction business licenses.

 

5. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed

In developing your landscape construction business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.

If you have your own funds to invest in your landscape construction business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your landscape construction business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.

Read our article about the costs associated with starting a landscape construction business to help you determine if funding is needed. 

Read our article about how to fund your landscape construction business

 

6. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently

When you start your landscape construction business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues. 

You may also want to invest in a project management software, which can help you keep track of your customers, vendors, and employees.

For example, 17hats is an affordable, all-in-one solution that helps business owners with tasks like invoicing, contact management, and project proposals.

Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a landscape construction business.

 

7. Market Your Landscape Construction Business to Potential Clients

Before you start selling your services, you must let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.

After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the landscape construction industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business. 

Additional strategies to prepare for include:

  • Sending out postcards or flyers to people in your target market area
  • Advertising in local newspapers, magazines and online directories
  • Sponsoring local events related to landscaping
  • Creating a strong presence on social media
  • Developing relationships with local real estate agents

Read our article about how to market your landscape construction business for more tips.

 

8. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business

When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients

Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your landscape construction business.

Read our article about how to effectively grow your landscape construction business to learn more.

 

Starting a Landscape Construction Business FAQs

There are many reasons why you should start a landscape construction business. For one, it’s a growing industry with plenty of potential customers. And as the owner of your own business, you’ll have the opportunity to set your own hours, work from home, and be your own boss.

To start a successful landscape construction business, you need to have a strong understanding of the industry and the landscaping process. You also need to be knowledgeable about the required equipment, the costs associated with starting and running a business, and the marketing strategies required to attract new customers.

You also need to fund the startup costs. And finally, you need to find and train the right people to help you run your business.

The best way to start a landscape construction business online is to create a website and promote your services through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. You should also consider networking with other people in the landscape construction industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.

You also need to start gathering the materials required to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Ensure that clients can book your services online.

Here are some tips for starting a landscape construction business:

  • Create a business plan
  • Research the industry
  • Obtain licenses and permits
  • Raise startup capital
  • Purchase the right equipment
  • Set up your workspace
  • Promote your business
  • Find and train the right people to help you run your business

A simple checklist to use when starting a landscape construction business is as follows:

  1. Name Your Landscape Construction Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
  2. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
  3. Write a Landscape Construction Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
  4. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license or permits before you can begin operations.
  5. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
  6. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
  7. Market Your Landscape Construction Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need. 
  8. Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services

 

Start a Landscape Construction Business

If you plan accordingly, you’ll be well on your way to success. We’ve outlined some tips and advice that should help you get started. Remember to focus on marketing your business effectively, obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, and stocking up on the right equipment. With these things in place, you’ll be ready to provide clients with the high-quality landscape construction services they need.