Tree Removal at a Rental Property in Brisbane: Landlord, Tenant, Who Pays?

A tree falls or needs removing at a rental. Who arranges it and who pays? The Queensland position.

Landlord's responsibility for tree maintenance

Maintaining trees in safe condition at a rental property is generally the landlord's responsibility. A dead, diseased, or structurally compromised tree that damages a tenant's property or the house can expose the landlord to liability, particularly if the risk was known and unaddressed.

Routine maintenance vs. emergency removal

Routine tree maintenance (pruning for size, general upkeep) is a landlord cost and should be planned for. Emergency removal following storm damage or sudden failure is typically covered under the landlord's building insurance, subject to the policy terms.

Tenant obligations

Tenants are generally responsible for lawn mowing and basic garden care, but not tree work. A tenant who notices a tree is dead, leaning, or dropping major branches should document it and notify the landlord or property manager in writing.

Property managers: practical advice

For property managers: schedule a tree inspection as part of the annual condition report. Flagging tree risks proactively is far better than managing an emergency claim or a tenant complaint after a tree damages the property.