Queensland Rental Property Rules on Lawns, Gardens and Trees

The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) reminds Landlords and Property Managers that arrangements about the maintenance of gardens, including fruit trees, and lawns should be listed in the tenancy agreement.

Generally, the tenant is responsible for yard work, such as mowing, edging and weeding. However, this should be specified in the agreement.

Any plants, hedges or lawns that require specialist upkeep are usually not the responsibility of the tenant, unless they agree.

Major work such as tree lopping or pruning trees and shrubs is usually carried out by the Landlord or Property Manager as part of their obligation to keep the property in good repair.

Responsibility for removing fallen branches, including palm fronds, may vary depending on the circumstances. The tenant may be responsible to clear away small, manageable branches in a timely manner.

Larger branches, which may require specialist equipment to remove, may be the Landlord/Property Manager’s responsibility. Also, any damage caused by the fallen branches may be their responsibility to repair.

If yard maintenance is covered by a contract between the Landlord/Property Manager and an external company, this should be listed in the tenancy agreement.

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