....how are the fees set, and how do you pay?
Is it done per visit, per week/month, according to season/work that needs doing, per hour? Annual amount broken up into smaller payments? Other methods?
My situation: in the past, the gardener sent a bill every month which outlined what had been done, and I was charged accordingly. About 18 months ago, he asked if we could add up monthly invoices to get an annual amount, then divide by 12 so that I paid/he received the same amount every month. We agreed to try this method as it would help him streamline paperwork. Now, I'm not so sure it's working.
About a year ago, he employed his son to help out. The son comes over once a week to cut grass/trim edges, and then tops up the ornamental pond with a garden hose, and throws a handful of chemicals in to keep it clear. I have seen the gardener himself once all summer when he stopped by one evening for about 30 minutes (it is possible he's come other times when I've been out). I feel I am paying for a gardener, but getting a grass cutter/trimmer who also spends 5 minutes of dealing with the pond.
How should I address this issue?