Preventing Client Payment Disputes in Landscape Design

Preventing Client Payment Disputes in Landscape Design

A second perspective on the same issue: structure your fees to get paid for time, not just results.

Fee Structure That Works

1. Design fee upfront: Charged for plans, renderings, specs—non-refundable.
2. Time & materials for installation: Client pays for labor, plants, materials as used.
3. Change orders billed hourly: Every revision, meeting, or selection change adds to invoice.

Why This Helps

Clients who drive up hours with indecision pay for it. You're compensated for expertise, not just the final garden.

When to Walk Away

If communication breaks down completely, consult a lawyer. Unfinished work can be deemed "damage" in some jurisdictions—get legal advice before abandoning a project.

Clear financial boundaries attract respectful clients and filter out problematic ones.