Service Agreement

This document will outline the terms and conditions of service between the client and Urban Effects Lawn Care (Urban Effects). This will govern the respective rights, responsibilities, and obligations. The use of any Urban Effects services is governed by these terms and conditions. All clients are required to sign this agreement before any services can be performed. This Service Agreement is binding until a new or updated agreement is made and agreed upon in writing by both parties. Client can opt-out of services at any time without penalty, if cancellation terms are met. Refer to our cancellation policy for more details. Please read these terms carefully.

Service Requests

Urban Effects will deliver the services mutually agreed upon by both parties. Upon receiving a service request, Urban Effects will provide the client with a detailed quote. Once the quote is accepted and the service agreement is signed, Urban Effects will schedule and begin the work.

Service Availability and Scheduling

Any service request will be granted based on availability. Urban Effects will schedule the client's service(s) accordingly. Schedules and service dates are set to maximize performance and efficiency. Urban Effects will do its best to maintain a consistent schedule and to service the client's property on the scheduled day to the best of their abilities. Specific requests for the day of service will only be granted based on availability. 

Weather/Unforeseen Circumstances

Due to uncontrollable weather conditions, as well as various other unforeseen circumstances, Urban Effects cannot always guarantee an exact day or time of service and reserves the right to change the scheduled date/time if necessary. Services that are delayed will be rescheduled for the next permitting day, or shortly thereafter - dependent upon the number of continuous days affected. 

Access to Property

The client grants permission for Urban Effects employees or personnel to access their property to perform services. The client permits Urban Effects to use their driveway or parking lot to park our vehicle(s) to perform services if they deem it necessary and/or if there is no street parking available within close proximity to the service area.

Service Area Accessibility

The client is not required to be at the property while services are performed. However, the service area must be accessible and free of obstructions. Urban Effects will service what they can reasonably access and service. This includes but is not limited to gate locks, animal feces, hazardous materials, chemicals on turf, decorations, toys, furniture, lighting, drip lines, etc.

  Unmarked Objects & Fixtures

Any unmarked objects or fixtures, such as sprinkler heads, hoses, water or cable lines, pipes, etc., that are not buried at least 6 inches below ground level must be clearly marked with a flag by the client. This is particularly important for services like mowing, aeration, and any work involving digging. Failure to mark or move such objects may result in the service being skipped or rescheduled, depending on availability, without a discount or refund. Urban Effects is not responsible for damage to any unmarked objects, obstructions, or fixtures within the service area that have not been clearly marked or moved out of the service area (please refer to the Notice of Damage section for more details).

Sprinkler Systems

Please ensure that your sprinkler system is turned off at least 12 hours before your scheduled service and remains off during the service day. If the service is rescheduled, kindly make sure the sprinklers are also off for the new service date. Failure to do any of the above may result in service being skipped or rescheduled only if time permits, without a discount or refund. Additional charges may apply during the next service to bring the grass back to an appropriate height.

Pets

All pets must be secured to prevent any threat to service personnel. Property must be free and clear of animal feces before each service. Equipment cleaning surcharges may apply if pet waste is not properly collected and discarded.

Authorized Charges

The client agrees to pay for all services they have authorized, including any supplies or materials authorized by the client to complete the work.

Billing Period

Urban Effects invoices monthly for recurring mowing and maintenance services. Any additional services during that period will be added to the invoice. Billing periods follow a calendar month, and invoices will be delivered by the end of the first full week of the following month via mail, email, or text (SMS), as agreed upon.

Payment Collection & Terms:

Payment is due within 14 days of receiving the invoice. Some services may require immediate payment upon completion – client will be notified in advance if that is the case. If payment is not received within 14 days of the invoice date, a reminder may be sent. If payment is not made by the 1st of the following month (approximately 30 days after the invoice), Urban Effects reserves the right to suspend or cancel services until the outstanding balance, along with any additional fees, is paid in full. At least one reminder will be provided before suspension. Unpaid balances will be sent to collections. NSF cheques will incur a $40 processing fee.

Billing Discrepancies

If the client has a billing discrepancy, the client should notify Urban Effects as soon as possible after discovery.

Deposits

For projects valued at $500 or more, a 50% deposit is required before work can begin. For new clients, Urban Effects may request a 50% deposit of the first invoice or quote, prior to starting the work.

Price Adjustments

As costs are subject to change, our service prices are also subject to change. Urban Effects will advise the client, in advance, of any price adjustments before any services are performed at the new rate. Quotes are only valid for 30 days. After 30 days, the quote is subject to revision.

Sales Tax

All services are subject to 13% HST. Taxes will apply to all forms of payments and all services. No exceptions can be made.

Payment Methods
Accepted methods of payment include:

Cancelling a Visit

The client should notify Urban Effects within at least 24 hours notice to skip or reschedule a service.

• Mowing: If the client would like their yard skipped for a specific week, please let Urban Effects know in advance. As mowing is done on a subscription basis, Urban Effects will not provide a refund or discount for that service, and the client will still be charged in full.
• Maintenance Services: Services such as spring/fall cleanups, or other maintenance work require at least 5 days' notice to cancel or reschedule that service. A rescheduling fee of $80 may be applied to your account if less than 5 days' notice is provided.

Cancellation of Services

If for any reason the client would like to cancel their services indefinitely, please notify Urban Effects as soon as possible. Services can be cancelled without penalty as long as 14 days notice is given. If the client would like services cancelled immediately, they will be billed for any upcoming services within the next 14-day period. Urban Effects may, at their discretion, accept an immediate cancellation notice for the following reasons*: the client moves out of or sells the property, unemployment, sickness and/or death. Minimum one month commitment for recurring maintenance work. If the one-month commitment is not fulfilled, client will be charged in full for a full month of service. Continuous sign up and opt-outs are not permitted and will result in an indefinite account suspension.

Accounts must be paid in full at the time of cancellation. If payment is not received, cancelling services does not remove the client from their obligation to pay all fees outstanding. If the client refuses to pay the outstanding amount, it will be sent to collections. All fees associated with pursuing to collect any outstanding fees will be the sole responsibility of the client.

Termination of Services

Urban Effects reserves the right to terminate services or the account at any point for any reason. Termination does not remove the client of their responsibility to pay for all services owed to date.

Notice of Damage

Urban Effects requires the client to promptly report any damage caused by their employees during services, with a 48-hour notification window for minor issues via phone and written notice for more complex problems. Urban Effects aims to address problems within five business days, though complex issues may take longer. Urban Effects is insured, and the resolution may involve collaboration with their insurance provider.

 

Urban Effects is not accountable for plant damage as a result of regular maintenance.  We will advise the client in advance if we believe that the service may cause harm to any plantae. Damage to property under regular use, such as gates, gate latches, stepping stones, walkways, etc., is not Urban Effects' responsibility. Urban Effects is not responsible for damage to any unmarked objects, obstructions or fixtures on the property within the service.

Service Area Accessibility

The service area must be accessible and free of obstructions. We will service what we have access to and can reasonably service. This includes but is not limited to gate locks, animal feces, hazardous materials, chemicals on turf, decorations, toys, furniture, string lighting, drip lines, etc. Objects such as sprinkler heads, hoses, water/cable lines, pipes, etc., not buried at least 6” below ground level must be clearly marked with a flag by the client. This is especially important during services such as mowing, aeration, and/or any digging.

• Cleanup Services: Cleanup services will vary based on the customer's needs.
• General Cleanup: Most cleanups will consist of cutting down overgrown grass, plants, removing leaves, branches, and other debris from turf areas, garden beds, patios, driveways, walkways, etc., using blowers, rakes, lawnmowers, and other garden tools.
• Bushes, Shrubs, and Trees: Bushes, shrubs, and trees may be cut back, trimmed, or pruned if necessary, or as per the customer's request. We are not responsible for the decline in plant health or bare spots being created in shrubs or trees due to extensive pruning or trimming as requested by the customer.
• Leaf & Debris Cleanup: We cannot guarantee that all leaves, trimmings, or clippings will be fully removed from garden beds, patios, pools, or turf areas; however, we will do our best to collect, clean up, and/or contain as much as possible.
• Bark Mulch Installation: If bark mulch is to be installed, we do so at an approximate thickness of 2-4”. This helps prevent weed growth through the mulch while still allowing water to reach the soil. Urban Effects cannot guarantee that weeds will not grow through the mulch.
• Weed Maintenance: During property cleanups, Urban Effects cannot guarantee that weeds won’t grow back. Additional appropriate measures such as adding new rock, mulch, weed barriers, etc., should be implemented. Weed maintenance requires continued upkeep.
• Planting & Shrub Installation: If Urban Effects is planting provided plants or shrubs, we are not liable for plants that do not root properly, become diseased, or are malnourished and ultimately die. Some plants may be covered under the nursery’s warranty.
• Liability Disclaimer: We are not responsible for damage to cables, lines, pipes, irrigation heads, or any other fixtures not clearly marked by the homeowner.

If for any reason, you are not 100% satisfied with your services, please contact us within 24 hours to resolve the issue. We pride ourselves on providing a quality service that satisfies our client's reasonable expectations.  Your Satisfaction is Our Priority!

The terms and conditions of the following subheadings are all amalgamated together and apply to each aspect of service
regardless of the heading it is under.

Urban Effects Lawn Care offers lawn mowing exclusively through a subscription-based model. This service runs for eight months, from April 1st to November 30th, with weekly mowing—bi-weekly services are not available. If a client enrolls mid-season, billing will begin from the first completed service. Minimum one month commitment for recurring maintenance work. If the one-month commitment is not fulfilled, client will be charged in full for a full month of service.

What to Expect:

• First week of April: The first week of the season will include a property walkthrough and brief initial cleanup, removing any large debris and/or obstacles that may have accumulated in the lawn over the winter and will interfere with the lawn mowing service. This prepares your yard for the mowing season. If you have booked a Spring Cleanup, this week’s charge will be waived.
• Second week of April – October 31st: Beginning the second week of April, we will begin providing one weekly lawn cut as the growing season picks up. We will continue with weekly cutting until the end of October. Each service includes mowing turf areas, trimming/edging, and blowing.
• November: In November, some lawns begin to go dormant while most continue to grow. If your lawn still requires mowing, we’ll continue with scheduled cuts until growth slows down. If your lawn has gone dormant, we’ll shift our focus to weekly property maintenance for the rest of the month. This will include leaf cleanup, mulching, tidying garden beds, and general fall upkeep—using your scheduled service time efficiently to keep your property looking its best. Cleanups will be done at the same rate as your mowing service.
  
  

  This proactive approach helps prevent a heavy buildup of leaves and debris. However, the client can schedule a full fall cleanup in November if they deem it necessary. If we experience snowfall in November, you’ll only be billed for the services we complete, and there will be no charge for missed weeks due to snowfall or snow accumulation.

• December: By December, all weekly maintenance services will be finished for the season. However, if your property needs additional cleanup or maintenance, you can schedule extra service as needed.

Mowing:

• Mowing Height: Turf areas will be mowed to an average height of approximately 3.25”. This promotes deeper root growth, reduces weeds, improves lawn density, and minimizes stress and disease. Upon request, mowing height can be adjusted to be higher or shorter.
• Grass Clippings: Clippings will be mulched back into the lawn to promote soil health. If bagging is required, an additional surcharge will apply for bagging and/or disposal. If the client opts not to have clippings hauled away, they will be left in lawn bags at an appropriate location on the property.
• Blade Maintenance: Mower blades are always kept sharp to ensure a clean cut and reduce the risk of lawn disease.
• Sprinkler Systems: Sprinkler systems must be turned off at least 12 hours before any service and must remain off during the regularly scheduled service day.
• Pet Waste Policy: Clients must ensure that pet waste is removed from service areas before mowing. If pet waste is present in the mowing area, a minimum equipment cleaning fee of $40 may be applied.
• Mowing in Wet Conditions: Urban Effects may mow in light rain or damp conditions if it is deemed safe and will still result in a high-quality cut.

Trimming and Edging:

• Trimming & Edging: Turf edges will be trimmed and edged around trees, garden beds, buildings, sidewalks, curbs, driveways, patios, parking lots, fences, and other surfaced areas bordered by grass.
• Exclusions: Trimming does not include the removal of weeds growing between patio pavers, or in cracks on driveways, walkways, or other hard surfaces.

Blowing

• Clipping Cleanup: To maintain a professional appearance, all grass clippings will be blown off or out of garden beds, sidewalks, curbs, driveways, patios, parking lots, roadways, and other surfaces.
• Exclusions: Clippings will not be blown into roadways or sewer drains.

Scheduled Service Day

Urban Effects will give each client a day of the week that their property will be serviced. Day-of-the-week service requests will be granted based on availability. Urban Effects has the right to change the day of service without notice to maximize performance. However, we will advise you of permanent schedule changes.

Urban Effects reserves the right to service your property up to two days before or after your scheduled service date, dependent on factors out of our control, such as weather. Urban Effects will do its best to maintain a consistent schedule and to service your property on your scheduled day of service to the best of their abilities. 

Weather

Services that are delayed due to weather will be rescheduled for the next weather-permitting day, or shortly thereafter, dependent upon the number of continuous days affected by weather. During times of extreme heat or low rainfall, Urban Effects reserves the right to skip mowing, and trim/blow certain areas of the yard instead or do general cleanup maintenance around the yard keeping your lawn looking tidy. Mowing during extreme heat and low rainfall periods where grass has not grown enough to cut will only damage the health of your lawn. During these situations, mowing service for that week will be skipped (alternative service may be provided), invoicing will remain at the agreed-upon rates and prices will not be adjusted.

Cancelling Services

If the client would like their yard skipped for a specific week, please let Urban Effects know in advance. As mowing is done on a subscription basis, Urban Effects will not provide a refund or discount for that skipped service, and the client will still be charged in full. Clients may cancel all future Urban Effects services at any time without penalty if sufficient notice is given. Please refer to our cancellation policy for more details.

Limitation of Liability

• Service Limitations: Urban Effects reserves the right to decline service in any area of a property where we determine there is a safety risk to our personnel or a potential for equipment or property damage. If a service is refused due to these concerns, no refunds or discounts will be provided.
• Grass Clipping Containment: While our team makes every effort to keep grass clippings within turf areas, Urban Effects is not responsible for clippings that may occasionally end up in garden beds, pools, or other unintended areas. Some mulch or dirt may be displaced onto the lawn when blowing grass clippings from garden beds. Urban Effects will take precautions to minimize debris on turf areas. Debris from the road may inadvertently end up in your yard while blowing grass clippings back onto your yard. Urban Effects personnel will try their best to minimize this from happening and ensure your property remains looking neat.
• Mowing Height Adjustments: Clients may request a higher or lower mowing height; however, Urban Effects will not be responsible for any damage, stress, or overgrowth resulting from the requested height.
• Turf Health: Urban Effects is not liable for turf stress, disease, weed infestations, or any other turf-related issues that may occur before, during, or after services.
• Underground Utilities/Fixtures: We are not responsible for damage to cables, lines, pipes, irrigation heads, or any other infrastructure installed less than 6 inches below ground level or not clearly marked by the homeowner.
• Property Accessibility: To ensure service, the mowing area must be clear of obstructions, including lawn furniture, toys, trash, pet waste, pets, sprinkler heads, debris, chemicals, or wet grass from sprinklers left on before or during service. If access is blocked, service may be skipped or rescheduled at our discretion, without a discount or refund.
• Wet Grass & Hard Surface Cleanup: Mowing wet or damp grass may result in clippings sticking to hard surfaces or leaving temporary stain marks. While we will make every effort to clear clippings from driveways and walkways, some residue may remain.
• Sprinkler Systems: Please ensure that your sprinkler system is turned off at least 12 hours before your scheduled service and remains off during the service day. If the service is rescheduled, kindly make sure the sprinklers are also off for the new service date. Failure to do any of the above may result in service being skipped or rescheduled only if time permits, without a discount or refund. Additional charges may apply during the next service to bring the grass back to an appropriate height.