Tenant responsible for lawn care
Reviewed by Marcus A. Hall, Founder
Standard clause
Common, reasonable, and usually fine to sign.
Quick answer
In single-family rentals, tenant lawn care is standard. Budget for a mower or lawn service.
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What it actually means
If you rent a house with a yard, maintaining the lawn is typically your job. Mowing, watering, basic upkeep.
This is normal — it's part of renting a house vs an apartment.
What it looks like in a lease
"Tenant shall maintain the lawn, including mowing, watering, and weed control."
What to watch for
- Whether landscaping (shrubs, trees) is included
- HOA standards
How to negotiate it
Accept this for houses. For apartments with patios, clarify what 'lawn' means.
When it crosses into a red flag
- Includes major landscaping (tree removal)
Frequently asked questions
What if I don't have a mower?
Budget $100–$200 for a basic mower, or $50–$100/month for a lawn service.
Related clauses
General information, not legal advice. Clauses are interpreted differently across states and courts. For a binding interpretation of your specific lease, consult a licensed attorney in your state.
