Minimum call-out fees
Gardeners often charge minimum call-out fees of $80–$150 because travel and setup make very small jobs unprofitable — common for courtyards and one-off visits.
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Why minimum fees exist
A gardener may spend 30–45 minutes driving, loading tools, and quoting. A 20-minute mow cannot sustain a business at hourly rates alone — hence 1-hour or 2-hour minimums.
Typical minimum charges
Metro areas: $80–$150 minimum. Some bundle courtyard mow + edge as a fixed "small yard" package.
How to avoid wasting minimums
Combine tasks (mow + hedges), book regular frequency, or share access with a neighbour on the same day for route efficiency.
What to look for in a gardener
A reliable gardener asks about access, slope, pets, and your priorities before quoting. They explain what is included in each visit and flag extra work (heavy pruning, green waste removal) before starting.
- Do they carry public liability insurance?
- Will the same person or crew attend each visit?
- How do they handle wet weather or missed visits?
- What equipment do they use for your lawn size?
- Can they provide a written quote and invoice with ABN?
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