Rental Inspection Lawn Checklist for Landlords and Tenants

A neat lawn makes a strong first impression at a rental inspection, and an overgrown one is one of the first things a property manager notices. Whether you’re a tenant preparing for a routine inspection or a landlord getting a property ready for new tenants, this checklist covers the outside basics.

Check who is responsible first

Lawn and garden responsibilities depend on your lease and on the tenancy rules in your state or territory. In many leases, tenants look after routine mowing and keeping the yard tidy, while larger jobs fall to the landlord, but always check your agreement or ask your property manager if you’re unsure.

Your pre-inspection lawn checklist

• Mow one to three days before the inspection. The lawn looks freshest and has time to settle, without days of regrowth.
• Edge paths, driveways and garden beds. Clean edges make the whole property look cared for.
• Trim around fences, the letterbox, trees and the clothesline. Long grass in corners stands out.
• Remove the clippings. Blow paths and driveways clean and don’t leave piles of green waste behind.
• Pull or treat obvious weeds in the lawn and garden beds.
• Clear the yard of toys, hoses, rubbish and anything else lying on the lawn.
• Check the nature strip if it’s part of your responsibilities under the lease.

For landlords and property managers

A regular mowing schedule keeps a rental property presentable all year, not just on inspection day, and helps protect the lawn you’ve invested in. It also makes life easier between tenancies, when a property can sit empty and the grass can quickly get away.

Aussie Mowing looks after investment properties for landlords, property managers and absentee owners across Australia and Tasmania. We can mow on a set schedule without anyone needing to be home.

Short on time? Book a one-off mow

If an inspection has crept up on you, we can do a one-off mow, edge and green waste removal so the yard is ready on time. Request a free quote and tell us your inspection date.