Do it myself mulch?

On my way in to work I noticed two of my neighbors putting down mulch in their gardens today. I am wondering if the mulch was provided by the apartment complex or if they went out and got it on their own. Last year I had the worst experience when the 'gardeners' came to put down mulch. They trampled my tulips....and I was livid. If the complex would let me put down the mulch intended for my apartment I would be more than happy to spread it if it would mean saving my tulips and lilies from being manhandled. I'll have to call the leasing office in the morning to see if they have a do-it-yourself mulch policy.