Gardens in a Rented Property: Common Tenant Questions

At Prolet, we know gardens can be a wonderful part of your rented home. They’re great places for relaxing, having barbecues with friends, or even catching up on studying outside. But we also understand that maintaining a garden feels overwhelming, especially if you’re new to renting.

What exactly are tenants’ responsibilities for garden maintenance?

Your tenancy agreement typically includes a clause about looking after the garden. Most agreements require you to keep it tidy, making sure it doesn’t become overgrown or messy. This usually includes mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, pulling weeds, and removing any debris.

You’re not expected to transform the garden or improve it beyond its original state. Your aim is to leave the garden at the end of your tenancy in roughly the same condition as when you moved in. Taking clear, dated photos of the garden when you arrive is very helpful. This prevents disagreements and makes things simpler when you leave.

Can I make changes or improvements to the garden?

While many landlords appreciate tenants who want to personalise the space, always check the tenancy agreement first. Landlords often welcome small additions like flowers or vegetables, as long as these are easy to remove or improve the garden. You need written approval from your landlord for permanent or major changes.

Landlords may charge you to restore the garden if you make changes without permission. You want to plant anything or add structures like a shed or patio furniture. Always check with your landlord first.

Whose responsibility is it to tackle larger gardening tasks?

Major or specialist tasks generally remain the landlord’s responsibility. Pruning large trees, dealing with tall hedges, repairing fences, or fixing unsafe features usually needs specialist equipment or expertise. Landlords must do this work safely and meet any health and safety rules.

If you see anything unsafe or too difficult to handle, let your landlord or our team at Prolet know. Tenants do not handle big gardening jobs or tasks needing professional skills.

Does the landlord have to provide gardening equipment?

Landlords are unlikely to provide tools for regular upkeep, so you may need some basic items like a lawnmower or garden shears. Check your tenancy agreement for details. If you have questions about getting the right equipment, speak to your landlord or get in touch with us at Prolet.

Yes, gardens are there to be enjoyed. You can host barbecues or small gatherings, as long as you’re considerate and tidy up afterwards. Check your tenancy agreement because some properties list activities that aren’t allowed. Keeping noise to a reasonable level and the garden neat helps you carry on having fun without any problems.

At Prolet, we see that most disputes between landlords and tenants about gardens happen because of misunderstandings over maintenance or unauthorised changes. Common issues include disagreements about the garden’s condition when a tenancy ends or changes made without approval.

Avoid these disputes by:

Documenting the garden’s initial condition with photos
Keeping up regular maintenance
Getting written permission before making changes
Reporting larger or complicated garden problems

Tenancy deposit schemes help resolve any disputes quickly and fairly.

Practical tips for maintaining a garden

Busy life can make garden care tricky. Here are simple ways to manage it:

Share tasks by making a rota with others in your property
Mow the lawn and pull weeds regularly
Choose low-maintenance plants
Keep everything neat and clear to prevent bigger cleanups later
Contact your landlord or us at Prolet if you need help with larger jobs
Tidy up before holidays to stop things from becoming unmanageable

Extra costs and garden maintenance

Landlords handle big tasks, but if a garden is neglected, they might need a professional gardener. These costs may be taken from your deposit. Checking your tenancy agreement and doing regular upkeep helps you avoid extra fees.

Some landlords may arrange occasional gardener visits

If you’re a student tenant, check your tenancy agreement or speak to our team to see if your landlord arranges any gardener visits. You’ll still need to keep the garden tidy, but any heavier tasks might be handled separately.

Need further garden advice?

We know you might be looking for student housing in Norwich or houses to rent in Norwich. At Prolet, we want to make renting easy for you. Contact us any time for friendly support and clear guidance. We’re always here to help.