Tenant education is key to a successful tenancy. If you rent out a property with a garden, share these tips with your tenants to minimise the chances of any disagreements over the garden at the end of the tenancy.
Read the tenancy agreement:
It’s important to understand your responsibilities when it comes to the garden. Read the tenancy agreement carefully and if anything is unclear, ask your landlord to explain. If you don’t return the garden in its original condition (allowing for seasonal growth), then you could face a claim for costs when you move out.
Check the inventory as soon as you move in:
Make sure the condition of the garden is properly recorded and that there are photographs. If not, update what has been written in the inventory, take some photographs and send them to your landlord or agent. Keep this information for your own records and make sure they are date stamped.
Attend check-in and check-out inspections:
Try to attend check-in and check-out inspections if possible. Always review the inventory report at the start of your tenancy and raise any discrepancies in writing straight away. At the end of your tenancy, check the report again to understand any differences that could lead to proposed costs.
Equip yourself:
It’s a good idea to check what tools you’ll need to maintain the garden at the start of the tenancy. Some landlords provide tools, others may not but may do so if you ask. If there are any issues with the garden at the end of the tenancy you won’t be able to use this as a reason for not having maintained the garden.
Attend to the garden regularly:
Try to keep the garden under control at regular intervals, particularly during the spring and summer months when gardens grow rapidly. Mow the lawn every two weeks during summer and water plants. Little and often is usually the best way to prevent stubborn weeds from taking over. Regular maintenance is not only cost-effective but also makes sure the garden remains in good shape throughout your tenancy.
Utilise inspections effectively:
Treat landlord inspections as a chance to discuss any garden-related concerns and pick up any tips your landlord may have to share.
Get permission for changes:
Always make sure to request permission in writing from your landlord before making any changes to the garden, even if you think they are an improvement. Without written consent, you may be required to restore the garden to its original condition at your own expense.
Keep an eye out for destructive species:
Some plant species, such as Japanese Knotweed, grow very rapidly and can cause damage to a property. If you notice this plant growing, you should inform your landlord as soon as possible.
Report any issues straight away:
If you spot any problems with the garden, make sure you report them to the landlord straight away to prevent the problem from escalating, rather than attempting to resolve the issue yourself.
10. Restore the garden before you move out:
Review the condition of the garden at check-in and aim to return it in the same state. Consider the season you moved in and when you are moving out, as different times of the year can impact the garden's appearance. Planning ahead can save you from potential costs.
A well-maintained garden is a valuable asset for rental properties, benefiting both landlords and tenants while also contributing to environmental well-being. But, without clear tenancy agreements, a robust check-in inventory and check-out, mid-term inspections and regular upkeep, gardens can become a source of unexpected costs. By clearly defining responsibilities in the tenancy agreement, conducting routine inspections, and maintaining open communication, landlords can help make that outdoor spaces remain an asset rather than a burden. Establishing a proactive approach to garden maintenance not only enhances tenant satisfaction but also protects the long-term value of the property.
