Garden Maintenance in Cheshunt: How Landlords Can Avoid Disputes

A well-maintained garden can significantly increase the appeal of your rental property in Cheshunt, helping you attract and retain reliable tenants. However, outdoor areas often become a source of disagreement between landlords and tenants—especially when responsibilities are unclear.

At Woodhouse Property Consultants, we understand the Cheshunt rental market and know that even small disputes can lead to end-of-tenancy complications. With garden maintenance ranking among the top five causes of deposit disputes*, it pays to be proactive.

Why Garden Disputes Occur

1. Lack of Clarity

A recent Propertymark survey revealed that while 75% of landlords believe tenants are responsible for garden upkeep, nearly half fail to give them clear instructions. Relying solely on generic clauses in a tenancy agreement is not enough. Misunderstandings arise when tenants aren’t fully aware of their duties—or simply forget them over time.

2. Missed Mid-Tenancy Checks

Another common mistake is overlooking the garden during property inspections. By the time you notice overgrown hedges or weed-filled flowerbeds, the tenancy may be ending, and repairs could become costly.

How to Prevent Garden-Related Issues

To keep your rental property in Cheshunt looking its best and your tenancy running smoothly, follow these simple but effective tips:

• Keep it low-maintenance: Design a tenant-friendly garden with hardy plants and easy-care features.

• Clarify responsibilities: Spell out tasks like mowing, weeding, and pruning in your tenancy agreement.

• Use visual aids: Add clear photos and written descriptions of the garden to your check-in inventory.

• Have the conversation early: When the tenancy starts, walk tenants through what’s expected in terms of garden care.

• Set boundaries: Remind tenants not to make alterations without written permission—and that they must return the garden to its original condition at the end of the tenancy.

• Lead by example: Stay on top of your own responsibilities, such as fence repairs, gutter cleaning, and structural maintenance.

• Inspect routinely: Make the garden part of your regular mid-term inspections.

• Prepare for check-out: As the tenancy nears its end, remind tenants of the garden standards they’ll be expected to meet.

Partner with a Local Expert

Managing a rental property in Cheshunt comes with its challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Woodhouse Property Consultants, we offer a full suite of landlord services, from marketing and lettings to proactive property management.

Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting out, our expert team can help you avoid disputes and maintain the value of your property.

???? Call us on 01992 637777 or ???? email info@woodhouseproperty.co.uk to learn more.