Renting a home with a garden?

It makes sense to think carefully about any outdoor space when you’re looking for a place to rent. Some people love to spend time outside. For others, a garden is a hassle they don’t need or want. But, as it’s likely your landlord will include certain conditions in your tenancy agreement regarding the upkeep of any outdoor spaces, it’s a good idea to think about the amount of garden maintenance you’re prepared, willing and able to do.

You might never have wielded a trowel or pushed a lawnmower in your life, but if the property has a garden, these tasks can become your responsibility. Think of it this way. You’re not renting a house. You’re renting a property. And just as you’ll be expected to look after the house, you’ll be expected to return the garden in a condition similar to how it was when your tenancy began.  Even if you’re not interested in that outside space and use it only as somewhere to store the dustbin, you cannot ignore the lawn or allow weeds to run rampant and expect to get your deposit back. In fact, a lot of post tenancy disputes about withheld deposits are about the state of the garden.

Check your agreement

Most landlords are reasonable. They won’t expect you to do significant work like tree pruning or landscaping, but they might object if you decide to sink a pond, build decking or dig up a specimen tree. At the outset, it’s best to check their expectations.

Check who’s responsible for hedge trimming and lawn care, and whether tools are provided-otherwise, you may need to budget for them. If you’re unable or unwilling to manage the upkeep, the property may not be suitable.

Gardens offer more than extra work-they can be a valuable space for children, pets, and outdoor living, but it’s important to check they’re safe and suitable. Small ornamental gardens may not suit active kids, ponds can pose risks, and secure boundaries are essential for pets.

If you enjoy gardening, even a rental can be rewarding, with scope to plant and personalise. Just check with your landlord before making major or long-term changes-they may even support improvements.

Check restrictions

Even with limited changes, you can create a beautiful garden using containers, planters, solar lights, and upcycled furniture you can take with you. Many trees and shrubs grow well in pots, while window boxes and hanging baskets add year-round colour. It’s also a great chance to involve kids—growing salad leaves, courgettes, strawberries, or even potatoes in a bucket makes for a fun, hands-on learning experience.

When counting the pennies, local gardening clubs often give away surplus young plants. If you can’t tell a weed from a perennial, ask for advice. Most gardeners are more than happy to help, and you’ll soon pick up the basics. Gardening is great exercise too. Good for the body and soul.

When you want to feel at home in a rental property, make sure the whole property – indoor and out – is right for you.  Be honest about whether you want outdoor space. If you do, check the landlord’s expectations, and then make that outdoor space part of your new home.