How to Communicate a Lawn Care Price Increase to Clients (With Free Sample Letters)

Raising prices is a normal part of doing business, especially in the lawn care industry. Costs for equipment, materials, fuel, and labor continue to rise. At the same time, attracting and retaining qualified staff has become more competitive, and supply chain issues are still affecting many service businesses.

Still, most lawn care companies know that keeping existing customers is far more cost-effective than finding new ones. In fact, retaining a client can cost up to five times less than acquiring a new one.

That’s why crafting a clear, respectful lawn care price increase letter is so important. Done well, it allows you to adjust your rates without losing the trust or business of loyal customers.

Below, we’ll outline key tips for writing a professional service price increase letter that helps you communicate changes clearly while reinforcing your value.

Tip #1 – Give Customers Enough Notice

Most clients won’t mind a reasonable price increase, but no one likes being caught off guard. To avoid surprises, give your lawn care customers plenty of notice before any rate changes go into effect.

Send a service price increase letter or email at least 30 days in advance. If you use email marketing platforms like Mailchimp or Constant Contact, include a short announcement in your next customer newsletter as well.

For customers who prefer paper communications, mail a printed letter explaining the price adjustment. Also update your website or customer portal with the effective date and new pricing.

The goal is to ensure every client receives at least one clear notice of price changes and their timing.

Tip #2 – Be Honest and Clear About Why Prices Are Going Up

Once you notify clients about a price increase, include a short explanation. People appreciate transparency, and a brief, honest message helps maintain trust.

Here are a few common and acceptable reasons to include in your lawn care price increase letter:

• Increases in fuel, fertilizer, and supply costs
• Higher wages to retain skilled staff
• Supply chain delays affecting scheduling and availability
• Investments in improved customer service or equipment

You don’t need to over-explain. Keep it professional and to the point. Avoid sounding defensive or making excuses. If your pricing is fair and your service is strong, most customers will understand.

Tip #3: Remind Customers of Your Value

Lawn care is often viewed as a non-essential service, and with so many providers in the market, price-sensitive customers may start shopping around. This is why your price increase notice should also reinforce the value of your company and the benefits your clients receive.

Here are a few value points to consider including:

• Consistent, reliable scheduling with minimal delays
• A professional, trained, and courteous team
• Flexible payment options, including auto-pay and card payments
• Responsive customer support with quick turnaround times
• Attention to detail and tailored service plans

Remind your clients why they chose your company in the first place. This helps reduce the risk of losing long-time customers over a modest price increase.

Tip: Arborgold software helps businesses like yours stay organized, communicate effectively, and deliver a seamless customer experience.

Tip #4: Provide Discounts and/or Incentives

If you’re raising prices, offering incentives or small discounts can help soften the impact and show appreciation for long-time clients. These don’t have to cut deeply into your margins—sometimes it’s the gesture that matters most.

Examples of incentives to consider:

• Small discount for pre-paying quarterly or annually
• Referral discount if a customer brings in a new client
• Free add-on service when renewing an annual contract (e.g., soil analysis, shrub trimming, or grub control)
• Discount for bundling services like mowing + fertilization
• Gift cards or thank-you notes for loyal clients
• Special pricing if they allow you to use before-and-after photos on your marketing channels

These small value-adds can go a long way in maintaining client satisfaction and retention after a pricing change.

Tip #5: Show appreciation

Always lead and close your pricing announcement with sincere gratitude. Your customers have chosen to trust your business with their property—acknowledge that trust.

A few ways to express appreciation:

• Start your letter with a thank you for their continued support
• End your message by reinforcing how much you value the relationship
• Let them know you’re available to discuss any concerns personally

Also, be sure to include a clear contact name, phone number, and email address so they can easily reach out with questions. A heartfelt message can go a long way toward keeping customer loyalty strong, even during changes.

Price Increase Letter Templates for Lawn Care Clients

When it comes time to notify your clients about service pricing changes, a clear and professional message is essential. Below are three sample lawn care price increase letters you can adapt for email, printed mailers, or text communication.

Each example is designed to reinforce your value, explain the reason for the price increase, and maintain strong client relationships.

Sample Letter #1

Subject line: Lawn care price update

Hi [Client First Name],

Thank you for trusting [Company Name] with your lawn care needs. We’re committed to delivering high-quality service, using the best materials and equipment, and maintaining a dependable, professional team.

To continue meeting that standard, we’re updating our pricing. As of [Effective Date], your new monthly lawn care rate will be $XX.XX.

If you have any questions or want to review your service plan, please reach out at [Phone] or [Email].

We appreciate your continued business.
— [Company Name]

Sample Letter #2

Subject line: Notice of service price adjustment

Dear [Client First Name],

This note is to inform you of a price adjustment that will go into effect on [Date]. Due to rising supplier costs and industry-wide increases in labor and materials, your lawn care service will increase by [Percentage or Dollar Amount].

Your updated pricing reflects our commitment to:

• Providing top-quality lawn care services
• Maintaining a reliable, skilled team
• Adapting to rising industry expenses without compromising service

Quotes already confirmed before [Date] will remain unchanged.

If you have questions or would like to speak with our team, contact us anytime at [Phone] or [Email].

Thank you for your trust in our work.
— [Company Name]

Sample Letter #3

Subject line: Upcoming lawn care pricing update

Hi [Client First Name],

Beginning [Effective Date], our service rates will increase slightly. This change helps us continue providing the quality care and responsiveness you’ve come to expect from us.

Your monthly lawn care rate will change from $XX.XX to $XX.XX.

As always, our goal is to keep your lawn looking its best while providing consistent communication, flexible scheduling, and reliable service.

We’re here to answer any questions at [Phone] or [Email].

Thank you for being a valued part of the [Company Name] family.

Raise Prices Without Upsetting Clients

Raising your lawn care prices doesn’t have to mean losing customers. The key is communication—delivering your message with clarity, confidence, and empathy. Most clients understand that costs go up over time. What matters most is how you present the change and reinforce the value you provide.

Here are a few strategies to help ensure your price increase is well-received:

• Communicate early and clearly. Whether you’re raising rates by a flat fee or percentage, don’t wait until the last minute. Send your lawn care price increase letter at least 30 days in advance to show transparency and respect.
• Keep the message simple and direct. Avoid jargon or overexplaining. Focus on how the increase supports quality service, skilled staff, and improved customer experience.
• Reinforce your unique value. Remind clients what sets your company apart—fast response times, professional crews, consistent results, easy online payments, or bundled service options. People are more likely to accept price changes when they feel they’re getting reliable value in return.
• Offer options when possible. If you can, provide flexible service tiers or discounts for annual prepay. This gives clients a sense of control and makes the increase easier to manage.
• Thank your customers. A sincere thank-you—at the beginning and end of your message—goes a long way in showing that you appreciate their loyalty.

Pricing adjustments are a natural part of doing business. When communicated effectively, they can actually strengthen client relationships and position your lawn care business for long-term growth.

About Arborgold Software

Arborgold is the all-in-one business management software built specifically for lawn care, landscaping, and tree service companies. For over 25 years, Arborgold has helped green industry professionals streamline operations, improve customer service, and grow their businesses.

With Arborgold, you can manage your entire business from a desktop or mobile device—estimating, scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and collecting payments all in one place. Whether you’re managing recurring lawn maintenance, complex landscaping projects, or tree care services, Arborgold helps reduce admin time, optimize crew efficiency, and increase profitability.

Discover how landscaping and lawn care companies can raise prices, manage client communications, and operate more efficiently with Arborgold.

Take a tour of Arborgold today and see how Arborgold helps field service companies like yours work smarter and grow faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do lawn care businesses raise their prices?

Lawn care businesses adjust their rates to keep up with rising overhead costs like fuel, equipment, and labor. These updated landscaping prices ensure the business remains sustainable while continuing to serve profitable clients. For more insight on minimizing customer loss, check out our article on how to keep lawn care customers happy.

How can I explain a lawn care price increase to my customers?

Be clear and professional. Share how the increase supports continued service quality and covers necessary overhead costs. Many clients understand that inflation and industry-wide changes affect landscaping prices over time.

What should be included in a lawn care price increase letter?

A good letter includes the new pricing, effective date, and a brief explanation of the business reasons for the change, like rising material costs or expanding additional services. It’s also helpful to emphasize your commitment to customer satisfaction and retention.

How can lawn care businesses keep customers after raising prices?

Clear communication, consistent value delivery, and small incentives go a long way toward retaining clients. Offer bundled services, loyalty discounts, or add-ons that reinforce customer satisfaction. Our article on account management strategies for lawn and landscape businesses highlights ways to strengthen relationships and retain profitable clients.