WEEDING OUT POTENTIAL PROBLEMS IN THE GARDEN

Last weekend’s sunshine saw many of us venturing out into the garden, removing the lawnmower from its winter hibernation in the shed, and tackling those hardy weeds which have survived the winter, writes Catherine Hunt.

For landlords and for tenants, a well-maintained garden is a definite plus point.  For those living in the property, an attractive outside space can greatly enhance the quality of their lives.  For landlords, a well-kept garden enhances their property’s appeal and shows that the tenant is taking pride in their home.

But whose responsibility is the upkeep of a garden in a rented home, and how do you avoid disputes about knee-high grass, out-of-control weeds, and unkempt hedges?

Research shows that three-quarters of landlords believe that most or even all aspects of garden maintenance should be the responsibility of the tenant, and yet fewer than half provide specific guidance to their tenants about their expectations when it comes to managing their outside space.  And many landlords don’t include gardens in routine mid-tenancy checks.

The tenancy agreement is the appropriate place to set out who is responsible for garden maintenance.  This should state clearly what tasks the tenants need to be undertaking (things like mowing the lawn, weeding, trimming hedges and keeping paths clear), and what responsibilities the landlord will assume (generally more major undertakings such as tree management, or hedge trimming which requires working at height).

The agreement should also set out what the tenant can and can’t do in the garden, whether that is replanting of beds, introducing sheds, or other things which might be regarded as major alterations.  It should also make clear what state the garden should be in when the tenancy ends.

But as ever, it’s not just about a contract (which is what the tenancy agreement is).  Far better for landlords to communicate clearly with tenants - and vice-versa.  Generally, tenants who are motivated to look after the garden are also going to take better care of the property as a whole and take a pride in living there - and that will be good news for the landlord too.

It is never too soon to sow the seeds of good communication between landlord and tenant; doing so can cultivate a really good relationship which will benefit everyone.