Our Grounds Maintenance teams are busier than ever at this time of year, and you should know exactly what service your service charge pays for.
Here we’ll answer some of your frequently asked questions, so you can know what to expect.
The teams maintain your outside spaces by cutting the grass, trimming hedges, picking up litter, controlling weeds and looking after planted areas so that our estates are safe, clean and pleasant to live in.
Which areas are included in the grounds maintenance service?
The service applies to all communal areas owned by Teign Housing, including:
- Outside spaces, shared lawns and other green spaces.
- Flower beds and shrubs.
- Paths and verges.
- Play areas.
- Car park landscaping.
Private gardens in individual homes are not included.
How often is the grass cut?
Grass cutting is carried out on a seasonal programme, meaning grass is cut more frequently during the spring and summer, less often during autumn, and cut over the winter when grass stops growing.
The frequency of cuts will vary depending on weather conditions, capacity and local arrangements.
What do I do if my grass hasn’t been cut yet?
Delays can happen from time to time due to weather conditions, ground conditions or emergency work elsewhere.
If you feel your grass cutting is significantly overdue, please report it to us.
What happens to the grass cuttings?
Grass cuttings are left in place as they decompose naturally and return nutrients to the soil. Removing grass cuttings is unnecessary and would result in higher service charges for the extra service, but larger waste such as hedge trimmings are removed and disposed of appropriately.
Are trees managed by your teams?
Yes, trees that are on our land are surveyed and maintained to ensure they are healthy and do not pose any health and safety risks. Work may include pruning, shaping or cutbacks.
We are focussed on being eco-friendly and encouraging sustainable environments in our communities, so we will never remove a healthy tree.
Do you maintain play areas?
Any play areas that are on Teign Housing land will receive regular safety inspections, grass cutting and litter removal.
Any damaged equipment should be reported immediately so it can be made safe.
What do you do about litter and dog fouling?
Our grounds maintenance teams will carry out routine litter picking on your estate, but everyone has a part to play in keeping their community clean and tidy.
Dog fouling is unacceptable and should be reported to us. We will deal with any issues through signage, enforcement and partnership working. Persistent issues with dog fouling may lead to tenancy action.
Can I request any additional work?
You can contact us if you feel there is a health and safety concern, such as overgrown paths etc. Non-urgent and more cosmetic requests may not always be possible due to capacity and service priorities.
Do I pay for the grounds maintenance service?
Yes, residents pay for the grounds maintenance service through a service charge that are explained in your tenancy agreements and annual service charge statements. You will only be charged for the services you receive.
What can I do to help keep my community clean and tidy?
Residents can help by:
- Using bins correctly and recycling where possible.
- Picking up after your pets.
- Respecting planted areas.
- Reporting issues early.
Working together helps create a better environment for everyone.
How can I report a problem?
You can report issues such as overgrown areas, fallen branches or missed visits by:
- Contacting us directly.
- Using our online reporting form or through the app.
Providing photos and locations can help resolve issues more quickly.