Any arrangement pertaining to garden maintenance, including lawns and trees should be stipulated in the tenancy agreement. The Entry condition report (Form 1a) and Exit condition report (Form 14a) should document the condition of the gardens and lawns.
Mowing, edging and weeding
Yard work is mainly a responsibility of the tenant unless otherwise specified in the tenancy agreement. This includes mowing, edging and weeding.
Tree lopping and hedging
Tree lopping or pruning trees are generally considered a major type of work thus it is made a responsibility of the landlord as part of their obligation in maintaining the property in good condition.
Given that this type of work is not as simple as something that can be carried out by anyone, the knowledge, equipment and services of a specialist is therefore required.
Fallen Branches
When it comes to fallen branches, there is no standard resolution as to who should be responsible in taking care of it. It basically varies depending on the circumstances involved.
The tenant may be given the responsibility of clearing away small, manageable branches regularly. Larger branches, on the other hand, require a specialist for removal and should be the landlord’s responsibility.
Repair of damages in the property caused by fallen branches may be the landlord’s responsibility.
Yard Maintenance Contracts
If the yard maintenance is included in the contract between an external company and the landlord, it should then be stated in the tenancy agreement. The tenant cannot be enforced to enter in a contract with a particular company for maintenance services on top of their rent.
