Re: Lawn and landscape tenant resp? - Landlord Forum thread 361522

Re: Lawn and landscape tenant resp? by Garry on September 1, 2021 @22:38

I have all SFHs, too-----19 of them. All my leases say mostly what your leases say-----tenants are to mow the lawn, and shovel the snow. But that's it. That's the basic maintainence of a SFH outside. They don't have to water the lawn, or take care of flower beds unless THEY want to.

Remember, once you rent a place to a tenant, it's no longer your place to tell them how to live (within reason). Also remember, most cities have laws regarding how high grass should be, or when to shovel the snow. That's why we both expect our Ts to handle those 2 jobs. But, generally, if a LL wants other upkeep on the yards, the LL should do it themselves, or hire a gardener.

About cleaning the gutters------NEVER have a tenant do it. WHY----first, it won't get done, and 2nd ------- YOU, the LL, are opening yourself up to possibly a HUGE LAWSUIT against you. If it's in your lease to have the T do it, and they do it,but then they fall off the ladder, they could have injuries that may be from $50,000 to $500,000 in hospital costs. They could be off work for MONTHS. If that scenario happens, YOU, the LL had better have EXCELLENT insurance.

The BEST way to have your gutters cleaned, is either do it yourself, or better yet,HIRE someone who cleans gutters for a living-----probably gutter installers also clean gutters. Yes, it could cost you $100 to have them cleaned once per year in the late fall, but it's WAY cheaper than the scenario I just mentioned.

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Re: Lawn and landscape tenant resp? by Bette on September 2, 2021 @19:39	[ Reply ]

I found your comments about gutter cleaning the most interesting - I never considered the liability issue interesting. Though the previous tenant hired it done - (they didn't really do it as rain back-up & our handy guy had to clean the gutter & said the guy didn't do. Anyway think I'll leave the snow shoveling/lawn mowing, as is and be more proactive about keeping an eye on the plantings ourself.