Get your rental garden spring and summer ready

GETTING YOUR RENTAL GARDEN,

SPRING AND SUMMER-READY

After the wet and grey winter, we’re all happy to see the evenings staying lighter later, and with warmer temperatures, now is the perfect time to get your garden summer-ready. However, as a tenant, it’s important to confirm with your landlord what you can and can’t do in your garden. PATIO AND DECKING AREAS A patio or decking area can be the perfect place to enjoy a meal in the evening or to relax with a G & T. Before you lay one though, check with your landlord, as a patio or decking area is more permanent than planting a flowerbed. FENCES AND GATES Fences and gates can be expensive to repair, so the landlord will more than likely want to get someone professional in to fit them. If you’re looking to paint your fences and gates to make them more aesthetically pleasing, also get your landlords permission first, as if they are not happy with the colour you choose, they may have to get a professional in to fix them at a cost to you or make you pay to replace them. FLOWERBEDS AND HEDGES If you already have flowerbeds, there are no rules in place about what flowers you decide to grow. However, if there aren’t any flowerbeds, don’t dig up the lawn to put some in without first getting permission. You will also be responsible for keeping the flowerbeds neat and tidy during your tenancy; so, try and keep on top As a tenant, it’s important to confirm with your landlord what you can and can’t do in your garden Homeowners don’t get all the fun in the garden when spring rears its wonderful head…

of these throughout the year. If you have hedges surrounding your property, remember to keep these trimmed during the spring and summer too.

TREES AND OVERHANGING BRANCHES If you have trees in your gardens, sometimes the branches can start to overhang and block out the natural sunlight. If you want these cutting back, check your landlord does not want to get a professional in to help avoid any damage to the property or surrounding properties. Some trees may also be protected and a fine may be imposed if you tackle them yourself.

Enjoy your garden when the nicer weather arrives; however, remember to check with your agent and landlord if you have any questions about what you can and can’t do.