A Landlord's Essential Checklist for Tree and Hedge Maintenance

As a landlord or letting agent, maintaining the trees and hedges on your rental property is so important, not just for safety and aesthetics, but for legal compliance too. This handy checklist will help you stay on top of your to-dos and keep your property in great condition for tenants.

1. Regular Inspections
   • Schedule bi-annual inspections (spring and autumn)
   • Look for dead, diseased, or damaged branches
   • Check for signs of pest infestations
   • Assess overall tree health and stability

2. Pruning and Trimming
   • Prune trees to remove dead or hazardous branches
   • Trim hedges to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth
   • Check trees and hedges don't obstruct paths, driveways, or utilities
   • Consider seasonal timing for specific species

3. Root Management
   • Check for surface roots that could damage pavements or foundations
   • Look out for signs of root invasion in drains or pipes
   • Consider root barriers if trees are close to structures

4. Disease and Pest Control
   • Identify common diseases affecting local tree species
   • Start appropriate treatments for any identified issues
   • Use eco-friendly pest control methods where it’s possible

5. Safety Considerations
   • Check trees don't pose a risk to the property or neighbouring areas
   • Check stability of large trees, especially after storms
   • Remove any trees declared hazardous by a professional assessment

6. Boundary Issues
   • Know your responsibilities regarding trees and hedges on property boundaries
   • Communicate with neighbours about shared maintenance of boundary vegetation
   • Be aware of local regulations on hedge height and tree preservation orders

7. Seasonal Care
   • Spring: Remove winter damage, apply mulch
   • Summer: Water during dry spells, especially young trees
   • Autumn: Clear fallen leaves, prepare for winter
   • Winter: Prune deciduous trees, protect sensitive species

8. Professional Assistance
   • Hire certified arborists for complex tree work
   • Consult professionals for any signs of significant disease or structural issues
   • Consider a maintenance contract for larger properties

9. Tenant Education
   • Provide guidelines on basic tree and hedge care in the tenancy agreement
   • Clarify responsibilities for routine maintenance (e.g., hedge trimming)
   • Establish a reporting system for tenants to notify you of any tree-related concerns

10. Documentation
    • Keep records of all inspections and work carried out
    • Document any tenant communications regarding trees and hedges
    • Keep copies of professional assessments and treatments

11. Insurance Considerations
    • Make sure your landlord insurance covers tree-related incidents
    • Understand your liability for tree and hedge-related damages

12. Legal Compliance
    • Be aware of any Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) on your property
    • Comply with local council regulations on tree and hedge maintenance
    • Understand your obligations under the High Hedges Act if applicable

13. Environmental Responsibility
    • Consider the ecological value of mature trees and hedges
    • Plant native species when replacing or adding new trees
    • Focus on wildlife-friendly practices in hedge maintenance

14. Long-term Planning
    • Develop a succession plan for aging trees
    • Consider future growth when planting new trees
    • Plan for the long-term landscape design of the property

By following this checklist, you'll make sure that the trees and hedges on your rental property are well-maintained, safe, and compliant with regulations. Remember, while some tasks can be handled by you or your tenants, others will require professional expertise. When in doubt, always consult with a qualified tree surgeon or arborist.

By staying proactive you're protecting your investment and ensuring a safe, attractive environment for your tenants. It’s a win-win!