Landscaper hit me with a $12k invoice I can't pay 😵
As a new homeowner, I’m still learning the cost of landscaping. Last year, a landscaper did about $1,200 of work for me. He disappeared for months, then reappeared in March with a late invoice, which I paid. This spring, he did some cleanup, and in June we agreed—verbally—that he’d do more work: weeding, pruning, brush removal, trimming, mulch, and maybe a few plants. He mentioned boxwoods at $40 each and said he’d throw in some junipers. I thought we had a rough understanding of the cost.
Instead, he showed up with a bunch of plants - junipers, boxwoods, spiraeas, hydrangeas, and two small Japanese maples - and did the work. I kept asking for receipts and an invoice. After two months, he finally sent one, and I was shocked. Nearly every line was marked up. Labor went from $55 to $60 an hour without warning. Yard-waste removal jumped from $100 to $300. Mulch was hundreds more than we’d discussed. The maples were listed at $1,300 each, even though they’re tiny—way above market rate.
I went to a reputable nursery to compare prices, and nothing he planted matches the cost he’s charging 😓😮💨😩 especially the maples. I’m considering asking him to honor last year’s labor and disposal rates, correct the mulch pricing, and take back the maples and boxwoods. I’d keep the rest and pay for removal if needed. But I don’t know how realistic that is or whether he’ll even listen. 😫
#Homeownership #Landscaping #ContractorIssues #Home
