Just like when you're choosing a lawn service company, communication is going to be the key to avoiding disputes over costs. Of course you need to make sure that you're using a lawn service company that isn't trying to swindle you; this can be done simply by doing your homework. Don't forget any honest company is going to be upfront about the costs, they know customers aren't interested in surprises, and won't be coming back if they get hidden, extra fees. If the yard care service doesn't want to give you references, or a clear estimate then you need to reassess who you have doing your yard care. However, if you've taken these clear precautions there are still some things you can do to assure you aren't being over charged.
The first recommendation is, always have a contract. A contract is the best way to protect yourself from being overcharged. It's easy to have a meeting and with our hectic lives these days forget key details by the next morning unless you've got it in writing. This way there won't be any questions when you feel you're being over charged, you can simply look in your contract and make sure the lawn care service is providing the services they promised you in their contract.
Secondly, errors do sometimes, happen. Perhaps one of the best ways to ensure you aren't being overcharged is to simply pay attention. With computers and the speed at which everything is done, the simple stroke of a key could result in being over charged. If you find that there is something off in your monthly bill, don't be afraid to ask questions. Check what you have written down about the agreement, and if it still doesn't make sense, go talk to your lawn service company, or give them a call. They aren't going to think you're accusing them of stealing. Mistakes happen even to the absolute best lawn service companies. If you're paying attention to your bill you won't end up paying charges that you aren't responsible for.
Being overcharged can cause a rift in a relationship with a lawn service company, so those that are honest and reputable aren't going to want to have those kind of issues with their customers, any more than the customers want to deal with them. It's important that you make clear what service it is you want and read carefully over the estimate to ensure you are making an informed choice when you hire them to do the work. This isn't the time to glance over the details, it's time to pay close attention and work with the lawn service company to build the package that's best for your yard care needs.
Like any other business endeavor it's important that you are staying on task and focused when you're dealing with the lawn care service you want, you don't want to be confused when that first payment is due and you're trying to figure out why it's more than you expected.