What to Know About Spring Lawn Repair

Springtime brings warmer weather, longer days, and yard maintenance. We get many questions about the three Ss: sod repair, shrub replacements, and irrigation systems (okay, we know that last one is a stretch). As the snow melts, questions about spring lawn repair are some of the first and most commonly asked. Get your season off to the right start. Communicate with your association so that you understand expectations and timing for various spring projects.

Who is responsible for repairing my yard?

The short answer is: That depends. In a single-family HOA with no grounds care, the homeowner is typically responsible for any winter kill or plow damages. In an HOA with grounds care – whether a villa, condominium, or townhome — the Association is generally responsible. But to be sure, check your documents. The Association may be responsible for the maintenance of the turf but not responsible for its repair and replacement.

When is plow damage repaired?

The warm snap we experienced in March that was followed by three inches of snow is yet another reminder of Minnesota’s unpredictability. But that climate uncertainty also validates what we’ve learned over time: Lawn damage generally is not repaired until late spring.

With unstable weather and fluctuating temperatures, sod farms are just becoming active. So, we typically don’t see sod becoming available for use until May.

Here are some things to remember:

• Check your grounds care contracts. If the grounds contractor is responsible for plow damage, your agreement will show those details. However, there may also be an exclusion for winter kill.
• Do your research on sod versus seed. Sod will provide you instant gratification but requires a lot of attention to make sure it doesn’t dry out. Seed will take several weeks to grow in but is a more affordable option for repairing a damaged lawn.

What are these tunnels in my yard?

Voles and moles can cause a real mess for your HOA. Additionally, many homeowners are alarmed when the snow melts to reveal what these critters have been doing over the winter. The good news is that in most cases and with some care, the areas will repair themselves. Once the grass is thoroughly raked, the lawn will naturally start to fill in.

After completing some seasonal maintenance, everything changes. The grass will begin to grow, and you’ll be amazed at how a little spring lawn repair helps to quickly and fully restore your yard.

If you have other questions, we’re here to help. Though each HOA community is different, Omega Property Management can help address your concerns and find the best and most immediate solutions. Contact us today to learn more about the Omega Difference.