What Lawn Care Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Starting a lawn care business is exciting—but knowing what equipment to invest in first can make or break your success. Whether you're mowing residential yards or maintaining commercial landscapes, having the right tools helps you deliver professional results, save time, and grow your business efficiently.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping lawn care contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance coverage. But we also want to help you make smart decisions from day one—including what gear to buy first.
Essential Lawn Care Equipment to Start With
You don’t need to spend thousands on commercial-grade gear to get started. Many successful lawn care businesses begin with high-quality residential equipment and upgrade as they grow. Here’s what you should prioritize:
1. Lawn Mower
Your mower is your most important tool. Start with a high-end push mower or self-propelled mower from trusted brands like Honda, Toro, or Husqvarna.
Push Mower: Ideal for small lawns and tight spaces.
Self-Propelled Mower: Easier to use on larger properties or slopes.
Zero-Turn Mower: Consider this upgrade once you have steady commercial clients.
2. String Trimmer (Weed Whacker)
A string trimmer helps you clean up edges and hard-to-reach areas. Choose a straight-shaft model for better reach under bushes and fences.
Popular brands: Echo, Stihl, Husqvarna, DeWalt
Gas-powered for power; battery-powered for quiet and low maintenance
3. Leaf Blower
A leaf blower keeps driveways, sidewalks, and patios clean after mowing. You can start with a handheld blower, and upgrade to a backpack blower for larger jobs.
Gas-powered for heavy-duty work
Battery-powered for quiet, residential areas
4. Safety Gear
Protect yourself and your crew with proper safety equipment:
Work boots with steel toes
Safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1 certified)
Ear protection (NRR 25+ decibels)
Gloves and sunscreen
5. Transportation: Truck or Trailer
You’ll need a way to haul your equipment. Start with a pickup truck or a small open trailer.
Open trailers are affordable and easy to load
Enclosed trailers offer better security and weather protection
Budgeting Tips for Equipment
Start small: Buy only what you need to complete jobs and earn revenue.
Buy used: Look for gently used mowers and trimmers to save money.
Upgrade later: Invest in commercial-grade gear once you have steady clients.
Rent specialty tools: Aerators, dethatches, and spreaders can be rented as needed.
Why Insurance Should Be Part of Your Equipment Strategy
As you invest in equipment, don’t forget to protect it—and your business—with the right insurance. At Wexford Insurance, we offer:
Final Thoughts
Starting a lawn care business doesn’t require a massive investment upfront—but choosing the right equipment from the beginning can set you up for long-term success. Focus on reliable, versatile tools that help you deliver professional results while keeping costs manageable. As your business grows, you can upgrade to commercial-grade gear and expand your service offerings.
Just as important as your equipment is protecting your investment. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping lawn care contractors secure the right coverage. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, we’re here to help you build a business that’s protected and profitable.
