Tenants, it’s that time of the year when you need to ‘spring into action’ when it comes to your obligations with garden maintenance.
When viewing properties in the countryside, often a garden can have a deciding influence; however it’s worth bearing in mind that with a beautifully manicured garden comes commitment, dedication and spend in terms of what is required to keep it that way – especially if it is a second home! Grass grows at its quickest in the summer months and plants will need watering, meaning regular hours of upkeep is required.
It’s simple to keep on top of gardening chores if you know what you are doing and do them regularly. For those with green fingers spending time in the garden can be relaxing as well as rewarding, giving individuals and their families great pleasure spent outdoors during your tenancy (if your Tenancy Agreement allows). For those that aren’t so gifted or don’t have the luxury of time, a low maintenance option of placing a few colourful plant pots outside can have an equally satisfying effect.
Garden maintenance and your responsibilities as a tenant
Most Tenancy Agreements will have a clear gardening clause, regardless if a gardener is included in the Tenancy or not. All tenants should check their Tenancy Agreement to see exactly what’s specified but, generally a Tenant would be responsible for basic maintenance such as:
- Cutting the grass and hedges
- Weeding
- Cleaning gully traps
- Garden fences
In general terms, anything on the exterior that’s structural, such as repairs to garden walls or paths, is the responsibility of the Landlord.
Asking the landlord about improvements
Should you wish to make any substantial permanent changes to the outside space, then it’s essential that a tenant communicates with their Landlord and obtains written permission to do so, to ensure all parties are covered when it comes to the check out.
For Example:
- Creating a vegetable patch
- Adding a garden path
- Installing a patio
Ultimately, a rented home remains the Landlord’s property and, much like with the interior, the Landlord will have the final say on any permanent or semi-permanent changes.
So with the changing weather, it’s time to make the most of those outdoor spaces and ‘spring into action’…
