We’ve seen a rise in demand for properties with gardens since the pandemic. Many tenants are keen to rent somewhere with outdoor space – somewhere to relax, exercise, spend time with family or simply enjoy nature. Outdoor space also provides opportunities to grow plants to benefit the environment – even plant pots on the balcony can play their part.

In this blog, we look at tenants’ responsibilities when the rental property has a garden, and ideas for gardening when you can’t put down roots.

Rental properties with gardens – who is responsible?

Most landlords will choose to put in a low-maintenance garden if the property has space. This is because they know tenants want outdoor space but don’t want to put them under pressure. After all, few tenants want to spend ages reading up on a particular plant, then prune and mulch it, then get rid of the green waste…then move out before it even flowers. 

However, even low-maintenance gardens need some attention. As a rule, the tenant will be responsible for mowing the lawn, raking up leaves and generally keeping the outdoor space tidy. If there are other plants and you don’t know what they are, use a plant identification app to tell you what it is and how to look after it. 

In some ways, rental gardens come with the same responsibilities as for the house itself. Inside, the tenants are expected to keep the property clean and tidy, and change lightbulbs and unblock plug holes. However, bigger jobs and repairs are the responsibility of the landlord. Outside in the garden, regular low-key maintenance is the tenant’s responsibility while larger jobs, like tree and hedge pruning and fencing repairs, fall to the landlord. 

Garden ideas for tenants

If you enjoy gardening, or it’s a hobby you’d like to explore, there are still jobs you can do in your rental garden to cheer it up and promote wildlife. 

You probably have a lawn but if you want to plant flowers or vegetables too, we’d always advise checking with your landlord first. It’s also worth considering whether you’re going to be in the property long enough to see the fruits of your labours. 

If you do get the go-ahead to plant, it’s a good idea to choose something low-maintenance. You might love giving your plants weekly attention, but future tenants might not. Consider hardy perennials, which come back year after year. Hardy geraniums make great ground cover and discourage weeds. They are also bee-friendly and very easy to pot off – you can take some with you when you move, or make presents for friends. 

You might not want to spend very much money on a garden that is only yours for a short period. Consider asking friends to donate plants from their gardens – they’ll also be able to advise on how to care for them which could save you hours of research. 

Container gardening

Another way to make your rental garden more interesting is to grow plants in containers. You can take them with you when you move, and if you choose colourful pots, they’ll even look cheerful during the winter months. There are a wide variety of plants that grow well in containers. In addition to summer flowers, you can also grow spring bulbs like daffodils, small trees and even berries and vegetables. 

How much gardening can I do in my rental property?

In general, keeping the garden tidy is enough. However, if you want to commit to any serious gardening, we’d always recommend checking your tenancy agreement to see what you are allowed to do. If in doubt, contact property management or the landlord and ask permission. 

Rent property in Guildford

Cobbles are experienced lettings agents. We love meeting landlords and tenants and matching people to properties. To find out more, get in touch today on 01483 457 000.