Moving house can be a stressful experience, especially for military families facing the additional scrutiny of meeting strict March Out standards. Military housing guidelines for gardens and outdoor spaces are particularly detailed, requiring meticulous preparation to avoid additional charges for wear and tear or non-compliance, especially since the Walk away scheme finished earlier this year.
Fortunately, the Garden Elf team offers professional garden maintenance and was founded by veterans!. Colin, a Royal Marine veteran, and Liz, an Army WRAC veteran, have firsthand knowledge of the unique challenges military families face during March Out. Their expertise ensures that your garden meets all necessary standards while relieving you of the burden during this busy time. It is a service that perfectly compliments some of the many March Out cleaning services also available to families.
Why Garden Preparation Matters for March Out
Military housing inspections require tenants to leave properties in pristine condition, adhering to specific guidelines for both interiors and exteriors. The garden, often overlooked, is a critical area subject to detailed inspections. Neglecting garden preparation can result in costly charges, but with proper attention and professional assistance, you can achieve a hassle-free transition.
Key Aspects of March Out Garden Preparation
1. Hard Surfaces
Requirement:
Paths, patios, and driveways must be swept, free of weeds, moss, and standing water, and safe from trip hazards. Handrails must be securely fixed and functional.
How Garden Elf Helps or Supports:
- Surface cleaning option: Thoroughly sweeping, scrubbing, and power-washing (if required) hard surfaces to remove dirt, moss, and weeds.
- Handrail checks: Ensuring all handrails are secure and functional, addressing any loose fittings.
- Safety inspection: Identifying and mitigating trip hazards like uneven paving.
2. Fences and Gates
Requirement:
Fences must be secure, preventing children or pets from escaping. Gates should close securely and have functional bolts and latches.
How Garden Elf Helps or Supports:
- Repairing damaged fences and filling gaps larger than 150mm.
- Adjusting or replacing gate hardware for secure closure.
- Offering pet-friendly solutions to prevent escapes.
3. Trees and Climbing Plants
Requirement:
- Remove self-set trees up to 75mm in diameter.
- Prune overhanging branches to maintain at least 1m clearance from structures, paths, and fences.
- Sever ivy at the base unless causing structural issues.
How Garden Elf Helps or Supports:
- Removing inappropriate or self-set trees efficiently.
- Pruning trees and climbing plants to meet clearance requirements.
- Offering expert advice on ivy management, ensuring compliance without causing unnecessary damage.
4. Hedges and Shrubs
Requirement:
Hedges should be tidy, below 1.8m in height and 1m in width, unless nesting birds are present. Dead or hazardous plants must be removed.
How Garden Elf Helps:
- Pruning hedges and shrubs to specified dimensions while respecting wildlife laws.
- Removing dead, hazardous, or invasive plants safely.
- Tidying borders and flowerbeds, leaving them weed-free and cultivated.
5. Ground Clearance
Requirement:
Gardens must be free of litter, pet waste, fallen leaves, and windfall fruit. Grass should be mowed, and arisings removed.
How Garden Elf Helps or Supports:
- Conducting a full garden cleanup, including the removal of litter, garden waste, and debris.
- Mowing and edging lawns, trimming grass to the required 25-40mm height.
- Disposing of green waste in an environmentally friendly manner for composing.
6. Green Space
Requirement:
Lawn areas must be even, with no more than 20% wear. Damaged areas should be reseeded or turfed. Temporary structures like swings and sandpits must be removed.
How Garden Elf Helps or Supports:
- Leveling uneven patches and reseeding or turfing worn areas.
- Using quality grass seed for seamless integration with existing lawns.
7. Outbuildings and Miscellaneous Items
Requirement:
Sheds and outbuildings must be functional and suitable for storage. Clotheslines should provide adequate drying space, and bins must be present, clean, and serviceable.
Why Choose Garden Elf for Your March Out Needs?
Colin and Liz’s military backgrounds give Garden Elf a unique advantage. They understand the rigorous standards required for military housing inspections and bring a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to their work. Their services not only save you time but also provide peace of mind knowing your garden is in expert hands.
What Sets Garden Elf Apart?
- Veteran Expertise: With firsthand experience of March Out inspections, Colin and Liz know what inspectors look for.
- Tailored Services: Customized garden maintenance packages to meet individual needs.
- Sustainable Practices: Eco-friendly disposal of garden waste and use of organic products.
- Reliable and Professional: A reputation for punctuality, thoroughness, and excellent customer service.
Final Tips for March Out Success
- Plan Ahead: Schedule your garden preparation well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Document Before and After: Take photos to document your garden’s condition at move-in and move-out.
- Seek Professional Help: Enlisting experts like Garden Elf ensures every detail is covered, saving you time and potential charges.
Contact Garden Elf Today
If you’re preparing for a March Out and feeling overwhelmed by the garden requirements, Reach out to Colin and Liz at Garden Elf to schedule your consultation and make your March Out as smooth as possible.
Leave the garden to us—because we’ve been there, and we get it. Let The Garden Elf help you take the guesswork out of garden care. Need advice or help with your garden? Contact us today, and let’s get your garden growing!
