Hedge trimming – the right time, visibility at exits and RUT

What hedge trimming involves

Hedge trimming is about shaping the hedge and keeping its height and width in check so that it stays dense and healthy. A gardening company trims the sides and top, deals with the clippings and can also carry out heavier rejuvenation pruning on a hedge that has grown too large.

Different species tolerate trimming differently. Privet, hornbeam, beech and thuja are trimmed in different ways and at different times, so it pays to hire someone who knows the plants.

When should the hedge be trimmed?

Many hedges are trimmed once or twice a season, often after the year's growth has got going and then once more in late summer. Hard cutting back is often done during the dormant period, in late winter or early spring, before the birds have started nesting.

During spring and early summer many birds nest in hedges. Wild birds and their nests are protected, so you should avoid heavy trimming or destroying nests during the nesting season. Always check the hedge before trimming, and postpone the job if you find an active nest.

Visibility at exits and consideration for neighbours

Hedges by a driveway exit or junction can block the view for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Many municipalities have rules or recommendations that vegetation within a so-called sight triangle at the exit must be kept low. The municipality can also require vegetation overhanging the pavement or street to be cut back. Check what applies in your municipality.

If the hedge stands on the boundary, it is good to talk to your neighbour before trimming, especially if the neighbour's side is to be trimmed too.

What affects the price?

Ask for a fixed-price quote or a clear hourly rate. These factors affect the cost:

• The length, height and width of the hedge.
• Whether both sides and the top are to be trimmed.
• Need for scaffolding or a lift for tall hedges.
• Whether it is regular shaping or hard cutting back.
• Removal of clippings or whether they can be composted on the property.

RUT deduction

Hedge trimming at your home qualifies for the RUT deduction of 50 % of the labour cost. Removing garden waste can be part of the work, but tipping and transport fees do not normally qualify. ROT and RUT combined may not exceed SEK 75,000 per person per year. Check that the labour cost is shown separately on the invoice. Read more in our guide to ROT and RUT deductions.

What the quote should include

• The length of the hedge and which sides are to be trimmed.
• Desired height and width after trimming.
• Whether removal of clippings is included.
• Labour, any other costs and the RUT deduction shown separately.
• Whether it is a one-off job or recurring maintenance.

Questions to ask and common mistakes

• How do you check that there are no active bird nests?
• What time of year do you recommend for my particular hedge?
• Do you take the clippings away?
• Do you have liability insurance if something is damaged, such as a fence or a car?

Common mistakes include cutting too hard too late in the season, trimming the hedge wider at the top than at the bottom so it becomes sparse at the base, forgetting visibility at the exit and trimming during the nesting season.

A tip is to ask for a maintenance agreement if you want the hedge kept in shape every year. The company can then plan the trimming around the species and the weather, and you do not have to remember to book. Also ask whether they can combine hedge trimming with other garden maintenance, such as lawn mowing or pruning, so that one visit covers several tasks. If so, check that all RUT-eligible tasks are shown clearly on the invoice.

Getting quotes through Fixtorget

State the approximate length and height of the hedge and attach photos when you post your request for free. Up to four vetted companies can contact you. After the job you can leave a review, and reviews can only be left by customers who have been in contact through Fixtorget.

Frequently asked questions