Managing & Looking After Gardens

This week we are looking at the benefits for Landlords and Tenants of managing outdoor spaces and garden areas.  We will be providing a toolkit useful for Agents, Landlords and Tenants to benefit all parties.

Tips for Landlords, how your garden can benefit your letting business and tenants.

 
​These are particularly relevant as the weather improves for summer and we move into peak lettings season as people look to move.

1. Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: Well-maintained gardens enhance the overall appearance of a property. A visually appealing garden creates a positive first impression and increases the curb appeal of the rental property. This can attract potential tenants and increase property value.
2. Tenant Satisfaction: A beautiful garden can contribute to tenant satisfaction. Tenants are more likely to feel happy and content in a property with a well-maintained garden. It provides them with a pleasant outdoor space to relax, entertain guests, or engage in gardening activities.
3. Health and Well-being: Gardens have numerous health benefits. They offer a natural environment that promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and mental well-being. Being surrounded by greenery, flowers, and fresh air can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase overall happiness.
4. Increased Rental Value: A well-kept garden can justify higher rental prices. Tenants are often willing to pay more for a property with a beautiful garden, as it adds value and provides an additional living space. Landlords can capitalise on this demand by investing in garden maintenance.
5. Retention of Good Tenants: A well-maintained garden can contribute to tenant retention. When tenants see that the landlord cares about the property and invests in its upkeep, they are more likely to extend their tenancy agreement. It reduces tenant turnover, which saves landlords time and money associated with finding new tenants.
6. Legal and Safety Obligations: Landlords have a legal responsibility to provide a safe living environment for their tenants. Neglected gardens can become hazards, with overgrown plants, uneven paths, or fallen branches. Regular maintenance ensures a safe environment and reduces the risk of accidents or injuries.
7. Environmental Impact: Gardens play a vital role in improving the environment. They provide habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife, contribute to air purification, and help mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. By maintaining gardens, both landlords and tenants contribute to a healthier and greener environment.
8. Having a well maintained garden makes it more appealing for families or those that have pets.

Tips for Landlords & Agents

Give your tenants some helpful hints and direction on the benefits of looking after their garden/outdoor areas.

Encouraging tenants to take care of the garden can be achieved through effective communication, setting clear expectations, and providing incentives. Here are some strategies that Landlords & Agents can employ:

1. Include Garden Responsibilities in the Tenancy Agreement: Make sure the tenancy agreement includes clauses that specify the tenant's responsibilities for garden maintenance. Clearly outline the tasks expected of the tenant, such as watering, weeding, mowing the lawn, or pruning plants. By establishing these obligations upfront, tenants will understand their role in maintaining the garden.
2. Provide Clear Instructions and Guidelines: Create a simple and concise guide that outlines the specific maintenance requirements for the garden. Include information on watering schedules, lawn care, plant care, and any other necessary tasks. This document can serve as a reference for tenants and help them understand what is expected of them.
3. Communicate and Educate: Have a conversation with the tenant about the importance of garden maintenance and its impact on the overall property. Emphasise the benefits of a well-maintained garden, such as improved aesthetics, and a pleasant living environment. Provide them with gardening tips or direct them to resources where they can learn more about garden care.
4. Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic inspections of the property, including the garden area. Schedule inspections at reasonable intervals and inform tenants in advance. During the inspection, provide feedback on the garden's condition and offer any necessary guidance or recommendations for improvement.  By having a clear inventory at the start of the tenancy and a check-out at the end will ensure garden condition is recorded and will endeavour to meet expectations for garden upkeep.
5. Provide Tools and Resources: Ensure that tenants have access to the necessary tools and resources for garden maintenance. This may include providing a lawnmower, watering cans, basic gardening tools, or access to a hose or irrigation system. Making these resources readily available can make it easier for tenants to fulfill their garden care responsibilities.
6. Hire Professional Help: If the property has a larger or more complex garden or for executive homes, it may be worth considering hiring professional gardeners. You can negotiate a regular maintenance schedule with a gardening service and include the cost in the rent. This ensures that the garden is well-cared for while relieving the tenant of the responsibility.

Remember to approach the subject of garden care in a respectful and positive manner. Building a good landlord-tenant relationship, maintaining open communication, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility can greatly increase the likelihood of tenants taking care of the garden.

In conclusion, both landlords and tenants benefit from looking after gardens. It enhances property aesthetics, tenant satisfaction, and property value, while also promoting health, well-being, and environmental sustainability.

If you need any help or advice on this or recording and documenting garden condition or you property at the start of a tenancy just ask us.

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​+44 7932 760 563