Why does RPM require landscaping / yard care services for all properties?

Landscaping services are required because we have found that this is best method for ensuring that the grounds are properly maintained. This is for the benefit of the property and the tenancy.

The landscaping services can be paid for by the Owner (included in the rent) or they can be charged back to the Tenant, but it is required that someone other than the Tenant is responsible for performing the landscaping / yard care.

Landscaping is an example of the "ounce of prevention is worth of pound of cure" where the cost of rehabbing the landscaping, when not maintained, far outweighs the monthly cost of continuous care.

One of the first things we do upon taking over management of a property into our portfolio is to determine the monthly landscaping expense. Once we have this figure, then you can decide if you wish to have landscaping included with rent or charged back to the Tenant on a monthly basis.

There are three basic options for landscaping that will be added to the Rental Agreement:

1. PROPERTY DOES NOT HAVE LANDSCAPING - Landlord shall maintain the grounds. Tenant shall not leave debris anywhere on the grounds of the property.

2. LANDSCAPING INCLUDED IN RENT - Tenant is responsible for keeping the grounds clear of debris and watering as necessary. Landlord is responsible for performing landscaping services. Tenant will be charged for additional costs if there are damages to the landscaping.

3. MONTHLY LANDSCAPING FEE - Tenant is responsible for keeping the grounds clear of debris and watering as necessary, but Landscaping services are provided by a 3rd party vendor. Landscaping services will be an additional charge of $XYZ per month that is due and payable on the 1st of each month. Tenant will be charged for additional costs if there are damages to the landscaping.