Leaf raking

In autumn, leaves can cover a garden lawn or a ground-floor flat’s patch of green within a few weeks. Left over winter, they rot, smother the grass and block gutters and terrace drains. Raking leaves is simple work, but it takes time, so many owners hand it over to a tradesperson.

The service is charged by the hour. The time depends on the size of the plot, the number of trees and whether the leaves only need collecting or taking away as well.

What the service covers

• raking leaves off the lawn, paths, driveway and flower beds;
• blowing leaves out of awkward corners with a leaf blower where needed;
• bagging the leaves or putting them on the compost heap;
• clearing terrace and paving drains if they are clogged;
• taking the bags away, if agreed in the request.

How often in a season

With several large trees, one round is rarely enough. Two visits work well: one in the middle of leaf fall and one at the end of the season, before the snow. Wet, flattened leaves take longer to rake, so it is better not to wait for the first frost.

What to prepare

Take a photo of the area and note in the request the rough size and what should happen to the leaves: compost, bags for council collection or removal. If you have your own rakes and bags, mention that too.

Common questions