How does Your Garden Grow?
As the Chelsea Flower Show once again captures national attention, it is a timely reminder that outdoor space — no matter how large or small — remains one of the most valued aspects of any home. From beautifully landscaped gardens to compact courtyards and even small apartment balconies filled with herbs and flowers, outdoor areas have become so important to tenants and landlords.
In the lettings sector, gardens are often treated as an “extra”, but in reality they form part of the property itself and require the same level of care, management, and attention as the interior. Since Covid, there has been a noticeable shift in how tenants use and value outside space. Small gardens can be transformed into usable living areas, balconies become miniature growing spaces, and tenants seek properties where they can enjoy fresh air, entertain, or simply create a calmer environment away from busy working lives.
The Importance of Inventories - Gardens & Outside Space
When dealing with property condition a lot of emphasis is placed on the interior of a property. However, outdoor areas — including gardens, driveways, patios, outbuildings, and fences — form an integral part of the property and should not be overlooked. The accurate recording of their condition through inventories and the ongoing property inspections are essential components of professional property management.
Under Section 11of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Landlords have a duty to maintain the structure and exterior of the dwelling, which includes boundary walls, pathways, and drainage. Furthermore, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 requires that properties — including external areas under the tenant’s use — are maintained in a condition that is free from hazards and conducive to healthy living.
Spring & Gardens
We appreciate that not every rental property has a garden or outside space, however, landlords believe that outside space and gardens, in particular, are an extension of the internal part of the property.In rental properties, the upkeep of the garden is typically the tenant’s responsibility unless a gardener is included as part of the tenancy.
1. Condition at the Start of the Tenancy
The condition of the garden should be documented at the beginning of the tenancy. This process is usually conducted by the Landlord or letting agent, with agreement required from both parties. Disputes frequently arise due to differing recollections of the original state of the garden. At the end of the tenancy, the outdoor space should be returned in the same condition, allowing for reasonable wear and tear.
2. Responsibilities During the Tenancy
A standard tenancy agreement typically requires the tenant to mow the lawn, trim hedges, remove weeds, and dispose of garden waste. Bins should also be emptied regularly, and general tidiness must be maintained. Structural repairs, such as those to fencing, walls, and paths, remain the responsibility of the Landlord unless damage has been caused by the tenant. In such cases, deductions from the deposit may be made to cover the cost of repairs, provided this is permitted within the tenancy agreement.