Grounds Maintenance
What it Involves
Our Grounds Maintenance team cuts communal grass and looks after shrubs and trees in communal areas owned by Teign Housing.
In the summer, our work is dominated by grass cutting and in winter, we prune shrubs and trees.
We are using more electric rather than diesel tools. This is reducing our carbon footprint, and the electric tools are quieter which residents often prefer.
Frequently asked questions
When and how often is the grass cut?
Communal grass is cut on a two-weekly schedule between the beginning of April and the end of September of each year. The schedule can be affected by bank holidays and the weather so the days we visit may change some weeks. We can’t cut the grass if it is either very wet or if there are drought conditions as this would damage the grass. If the conditions allow, then monthly cuts will continue between October and March.
Will cut up litter be removed when grass is cut?
Yes. We try to remove all litter before we start but if we do cut some up, it will be removed so the area is left clean and tidy.
Will grass clippings be removed after the grass is cut?
We leave the grass clippings on the grass. It is costly to collect and dispose of cut grass, but it becomes mulch and can help improve the health of the soil/lawn and reduce weed growth. Our cutting machines cut the grass into small pieces, which helps with the mulching process.
Will grass clippings on hard surfaces like paths be removed?
Yes. Once we have finished all the grass cutting on that section/area we will then sweep or blow them (using a leaf blower) back onto the grass area.
Why do you not cut an area of grass on our estate?
Teign Housing doesn’t own all the grassed areas, shrub beds and hedges on every estate. Some are owned by Devon County Council, Teignbridge District Council or maintained by the Town/Parish Council. Their cutting schedules are not the same as ours.