Garden areas are valuable in all properties.
In a block of flats, communal gardens are far more common.
Below, we’ve explained what a communal garden is and what the rules are for them.
What is a communal garden?
A communal garden is an outside area shared by several people.
This is common in a block of flats where all inhabitants share the same outdoor space.
Communal gardens are often found at the rear of the building. However, they may also be in a central location (square) with the surrounding building.
And in major cities, a communal garden could also be on the roof of the building.
Most communal gardens will have extra features, such as:
- Allotments
- Fountains
- Seating and tables
- Flowerbeds.
How common are communal gardens?
You often see communal gardens in urban areas.
Densely populated cities like London, Birmingham and Manchester are perfect for this type of garden.
It’s rare to see communal garden spaces in rural areas.
This is because blocks of flats are less common, and each house usually has its own private space.
Communal gardens are popular in retirement villages where many elderly people live together.
Who maintains a communal garden?
In most cases, a communal garden is maintained by the property management company. This is often the freeholder or a company they employ.
Most of the time, this will include general gardening tasks, such as cutting grass, trimming hedges, etc.
But it could sometimes cover more serious issues, such as rat infestations or Japanese knotweed.
What are the rules for a communal garden?
Rules for a communal garden are usually outlined in a contract when you first move into a property.
This is a renter’s agreement if you’re only renting the flat. Or it’s a lease agreement if you’re buying it.
The rules will relate to any money you need to contribute for upkeep.
It’ll also outline:
- Noise restrictions
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Permission requirements
- Rules (e.g., on smoking, gardening, pets, drying laundry, etc.).
If you’ve got a complaint about how someone else is using the communal garden, contact your freeholder or management company.
Are properties with a communal garden more valuable?
Properties with a communal garden are more valuable than those without a garden.
But if you get your private garden, this is typically even more valuable than a communal space. So, communal gardens sit in the middle of the scale.
A communal garden area can increase the value of your flat by around 10% on average.
It could be less valuable if dozens of people have access to it. But if only a couple of people can use it, then the increase in value may be greater.
You should ensure that the communal garden looks great when you host viewings. You’ll want to demonstrate that the service charge fee is well spent.
Am I allowed to decorate a communal garden myself?
Check the rules of your tenancy or renters’ agreement to confirm this. It may never be allowed, or the landlord could treat it case-by-case.
Landlords are sometimes receptive if they consider it beneficial to the garden space.
You’ll need to demonstrate knowledge and a deep care for the area.
Advantages of a communal garden
Socialising
A major advantage of a communal garden is that it allows you to connect with others.
You’ll meet the other residents in the building and build a friendship with them. It can become a great place to socialise amongst friendly people.
Health
There’s also health benefits of having a garden. You’ll get more vitamin C. Gardening and exercise is good for you, too.
Property value
Your property will be more valuable when you have a communal garden. Prospective buyers will almost always see this as an attractive feature.
Safety
It’s a safe space to relax, amongst people you know, rather than strangers in a busy park.
Disadvantages of a Communal Garden
Potential for conflict
Arguments can sometimes come up in a communal garden. This is often because someone doesn’t follow the rules.
Perhaps they’re playing music too loud or smoking when they shouldn’t be. The process of sorting this out can be tiresome.
Lack of privacy
You don’t get privacy in a communal garden. This causes potential buyers to view it less favourably than a private garden.
Cost
Your service charge will cover the costs of garden maintenance.
This means the service charge will be higher than if there was no communal garden.
