Maintaining curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics—it can significantly impact property value, neighborhood perception, and even legal compliance. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or renting out your first home in Virginia, understanding your responsibilities regarding landscaping and lawn maintenance is essential.
A common question arises: “Is the landlord responsible for landscaping?” While there’s no universal answer, several factors—including lease agreements, HOA rules, local ordinances, and best practices—help determine the right approach for your rental property.
Landscaping Laws and Lease Agreements in Virginia
In Virginia, there are no state laws that automatically assign landscaping responsibilities to either landlords or tenants. Instead, this duty is typically addressed in the lease agreement. A comprehensive lease should clarify who handles:
Lawn mowing and grass care
Leaf cleanup
Edging and weeding
Pruning and tree maintenance
Snow removal
General outdoor upkeep
Without clear language, assumptions can lead to disputes between landlords and tenants.
Under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), landlords are responsible for keeping rental units livable, which generally covers plumbing, heating, and structural safety—but not necessarily outdoor aesthetics. However, if overgrown grass or an untidy yard creates a safety hazard (like obstructed walkways or pests), the landlord could be indirectly responsible.
Lease agreements usually follow one of three approaches:
Landlord-maintained landscaping – Ensures consistency and HOA compliance.
Tenant-maintained landscaping – Works well for long-term tenants in single-family homes.
Professional landscaping included in rent – Convenient and ensures compliance.
No matter the arrangement, specifying expectations in the lease is critical.
HOA Rules and Local Regulations: Why They Matter
Many Virginia neighborhoods—including Ashburn, Fairfax, Arlington, and Alexandria—are governed by Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs). HOAs enforce strict yard rules, such as lawn height, tree trimming, and flower bed appearance. Failure to comply can result in fines and legal notices, which are sent to the property owner, not the tenant.
Even if the lease states the tenant handles lawn care, the landlord remains accountable for HOA violations. Some HOAs require pre-approval for landscaping changes, which tenants may not be aware of. Many landlords in HOA areas therefore prefer to retain control or hire professionals.
Additionally, local ordinances in Virginia may set standards for property maintenance. For example, Fairfax County Code requires property owners to keep grass and weeds under 12 inches tall on lots smaller than two acres. Violations can result in fines, notices, or even county-performed maintenance at the owner’s expense.
Pros and Cons: Who Should Handle Landscaping?
Deciding who manages landscaping depends on preference, property type, and lease length.
Landlord Responsibility
Pros:
Ensures HOA and city code compliance
Maintains professional appearance
Attracts high-quality tenants
Reduces risk of property damage
Cons:
Higher costs or time commitment
Requires vendor coordination
May increase expenses
Tenant Responsibility
Pros:
Reduces landlord costs
Encourages tenant ownership of property
Works for long-term tenants
Cons:
Risk of non-compliance with codes or HOA rules
Tenants may lack equipment or knowledge
Can lead to disputes
Professional Landscaping Included in Rent
Pros:
Consistent, professional results
Hassle-free for both parties
Minimizes fines or complaints
Cons:
Adds to rental costs
Requires ongoing vendor management
In competitive markets like Virginia, including professional landscaping in rent can attract responsible, long-term tenants while keeping your property’s curb appeal strong.
Why Working With a Property Manager Makes All the Difference
Managing multiple properties—or even one in a strict HOA area—makes landscaping logistics time-consuming and stressful. Coordinating landscapers, enforcing lease clauses, and monitoring compliance is not always straightforward.
Property management companies, like Century 21 Accent Homes Property Management Group, offer tailored solutions for Virginia landlords. Services include:
Drafting clear, compliant lease agreements
Coordinating licensed landscaping vendors
Ensuring outdoor spaces stay in top shape
Managing seasonal and HOA-related requirements
Our full-service property management services help landlords maximize investment returns while minimizing stress. We stay up-to-date with regulations and best practices across Virginia, from Loudoun County to Prince William County.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a new landlord or managing multiple properties in Virginia, understanding your responsibilities for landscaping and lawn maintenance is crucial. Clear lease agreements, HOA compliance, and local regulation awareness are key to avoiding disputes and fines.
Partnering with a professional property management company ensures your rental properties remain attractive, compliant, and hassle-free.
Contact Century 21 Accent Homes Property Management Group today to learn how we can help manage landscaping responsibilities and more for your Virginia rental properties.
