Snow Removal and Landscaping for SFR- Who's responsibility?

Question

I am thinking about buying a 4BR-2.5BA SFR to BRRRR, and while running the numbers, I wasn't sure if I should calculate for landscaping(Ex: Mowing the lawn) or snow removal. I know in multifamily, it is the responsibility of the landlord to take care of this. Can I put lawn care and snow removal on my tenant for a SFR? If this is in my contract, but my tenant injures themselves due to snow/ice, can I be sued or would my contract take care of that issue? Thanks!

Darren Budahn · Answer

@Adam Juodis

I'm no lawyer but as long as you don't act negligently I'm not sure there would be a problem. Now if you said as landlord that is was your responsibility to remove snow and ice and then never did so, then I suspect you could be in trouble if a tenant injures themselves. But if you put in your lease that they are responsible for snow and ice removal I'm not sure how you would be liable under these conditions. I use leases that are written by the top landlord lawyer in my area to hopefully protect myself as much as possible.

And, regarding lawn maintenance, I just tell them they are responsible for maintaining the lawn. i would not provide a lawnmower because I'm not in the repair business and also because I suppose you may have an issue with a faulty lawnmower and a tenant who gets injured. If they don't want to do it, I can hire someone, but will pass the cost onto them.

Adam Juodis · Answer

@Darren Budahn Do you know if you are vulnerable to being sued if a tenant injures themselves on your property due to snow or ice?