Who Is Responsible for Garden Maintenance in a Victorian Rental?

A garden can become a source of confusion when a rental agreement says little more than “keep it tidy”. The safest starting point is the written rental agreement, the condition report and current Victorian guidance—not an assumption about who has always done the work.

The practical starting point

Consumer Affairs Victoria's renters guide says renters are generally responsible for keeping the property reasonably clean and for minor maintenance such as keeping the garden tidy, unless the rental agreement makes the rental provider responsible.

Routine care commonly means mowing, light weeding, watering within current water rules and keeping paths reasonably clear. It does not automatically mean a renter should perform unsafe tree work, repair an irrigation system, remove an established tree or pay for work caused by a structural problem.

Before arranging larger work

1. Read the garden and maintenance clauses in the agreement.
2. Compare the current garden with the signed condition report and photos.
3. Put the proposed scope in writing: mowing, pruning, green-waste removal and any access requirements.
4. Obtain written approval before removing plants, changing garden beds or undertaking work that alters the property.
5. For an end-of-lease visit, agree on the required presentation standard rather than relying on vague words such as “perfect”.

A useful scope for agents and rental providers

A clear request might say: mow and edge lawns, remove weeds from defined beds, trim specified shrubs to an agreed height, sweep hard surfaces, and quote separately for off-site green-waste removal. This gives the gardener something measurable and reduces disagreement later.

Green Captains can assess rental garden presentation and provide a tailored scope for suitable properties across Melbourne's north. See our garden maintenance service or the dedicated agents and landlords page.

Official sources

• Consumer Affairs Victoria renters guide
• Consumer Affairs Victoria: renters making changes to a property

This is general information, not legal advice. Check the current agreement and official guidance for the property concerned.