Rent your garden out as an allotment
For many people living in flats especially they will not have access to a garden.
They could have a communal garden but you are unlikely to be able to turn any of that into an allotment – so what is the next best thing?
The answer is renting a space in someone’s garden
Outdoor space can be very difficult to find in large urban areas such as London.
Did you know that in London you could be waiting up to 40 years for an allotment patch from your local council?
If you have a large garden you may want to think of renting part of the space to another homeowner who does not have access to a garden.
You will need to make sure you have enough room in your garden to rent out. It is up to you how much you would want to rent out. All of it, half of it – the choice is yours.
You need to factor in how often you will be using your garden on a daily basis throughout the year. Think about summer when you are more likely to be me the garden either Sunbathing, having BBQs or generally entertaining. You would not really want a stranger popping by to do their gardening then.
Do you have a different entrance rather than your main door to the garden?
Naturally you would not want random strangers popping in and out of your houses on a regular basis.
If you have now decided that Yes it would be a good idea below are some points to get you started
How much could you earn?
Research indicates you could earn around £35 – £40 per month. Not a large amount but in today’s climate it all adds up.
The next steps
Decide on which part of your garden you are going to rent out and mark it off – this way there will be no confusion of what element is for the allotment section
Access to the garden needs to be agreed upon.
Are you using a side gate with a good lock? Why not put a notice on the gate stating you are renting out part of your garden as allotment – you could get passing trade this way.
Advertise your space
There are several ways you can advertise cheap
Word of mouth is excellent
Post card in the local shop windows
Advertise in the local paper
Put a note on your local Facebook page of your area
Draw up a contract
This is essential – the contract can be basic that all potential clients will sign and agree to.
The contract should cover (but not limited to)
Your name and address
Tenants name and address
Days of the week the garden can be used
Hours the can be used
Dates they will be unable to use the garden for example you may be having regular BBQs in the summer for example
Amount you are charging (with a refundable deposit)
Stipulation of care if they break anything
Weekend or Bank holiday access
Making additional money
Depending on the size of your garden you may want to rent out several plots at £35 – £40 per month – however I would just start with one tenant to see how it developes
Further information
For further advice look at the Local Government Associations section which sets out best practice for people with allotments. https://www.local.gov.uk/publications/growing-community-second-edition
I hope you found this useful.
