Need a Home Services / Landscaping And Outdoor Services Contract in Texas? AroundWire Can Help

In Texas, contracts for home services and landscaping/outdoor services typically require clear statements of work, scope, timelines, and deliverables, with detailed specifications for materials and labor. State law does not mandate written contracts for all landscaping services, but written agreements are strongly preferred for clarity and enforceability, especially for projects exceeding $500. While general landscaping does not require state licensure, specific activities—such as irrigation installation—require a license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and pesticide application requires licensing from the Texas Department of Agriculture. Contractors are commonly required to carry general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation is advisable, though not mandatory in Texas. Contracts often specify payment schedules tied to project milestones, with retainage clauses (typically 10%) until satisfactory completion. Texas law prohibits certain unfair contract terms, such as waivers of lien rights without payment, and includes prompt payment statutes requiring payment within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days for commercial clients). Risk allocation provisions, such as indemnification and limitation of liability, are standard. Dispute resolution is frequently addressed through mediation or arbitration clauses, reflecting local preferences to avoid litigation. Local ordinances may impose additional requirements, especially regarding zoning, water use, and environmental impact. Overall, contracts in this category are structured to address compliance, risk, and clear expectations, in line with Texas’s business-friendly but regulated contracting environment.