How can you encourage tenants to maintain the yard?

Question

I have SFH investment properties in A to B areas and all have front and back yards.  Based on my past experience with tenants, most will maintain the interior fairly well, but they will ALWAYS neglect yard maintenance even though it is written on the lease (e.g. mowing, trimming, watering...).  I was hoping if some fellow landlords have strategies to encourage their tenants to maintain the yards.

Jon K. · Answer

I would raise rent and include lawn mowing in the fee.

I've seen very few tenants maintain the lawn. Even when I've had houseshares/roommates where they were "supposed" to help with the lawn, or even clean the kitchen, that rarely happened. You can "remind" them, but unless you're willing to cease their month-to-month lease, it doesn't seem to help long term.

I had a single family home that was relatively expensive and upscale. The tenants actually hired a professional landscaping company for about $500 a month at their expense. The lawn looked impeccable. Better than I keep my own lawn. Too bad the interior of the house was ruined with pee everywhere (they had pets).

What if you made the lawn part of their security deposit? If your area would allow it, overgrown grass/weeds could be billed to them (their deposit) after they move. Again, if your area allows lawns as party of the security deposit.

Dawn Anastasi · Answer

I make it an expectation upon renting.  I had one property I purchased that had such bad weeds, etc.  The tenants trimmed the trees, spread grass seed, and other things and the place looks so much better. They really take good care of it. Another one takes care of the bushes, lawn, snow, etc.  Overall I have not had any problems.

Tom S. · Answer

Hi Albert,

The two things I generally pay for is lawn service and water (up to xx amount, usually $40, depends on your area).  Personally I've found it easier to maintain properties this way, plus my lawn person can alert me to any issues while at the property.

- Tom