Someone is mowing my lawn for free

[Troy P.]

I acquired a townhouse in 2022 on a small street of about 40 other homes. I was initially told there was an HOA but eventually found out it's not active and there's a lady who lives somewhere on the street that pays a lawn company to cut and trim everyone's yard. I don't know who this lady is and I don't know how to pay her, even if I wanted to. I'm one of the few that has a fence and enclosed backyard, and they have been cutting my entire yard for 2 years now. I have no idea who they are and have not paid anyone a dime. My question is, would you just let this ride or does it make more sense to attempt to catch them while they're working and ask them to stop?

I know there are risks: breaking my window, breaking a tenant's car window, tripping over a cypress knee and cutting off their own foot, etc.  Since I didn't hire them, I'm thinking I'm not legally responsible, is this generally accurate?  I'm not sure the best course of action here... 

[Bruce Woodruff]

Like you, I would be concerned about the liability. Although the odds of something bad happening are slim.....stuff does happen.

If you could find out who is in charge of this you could at least sign sort of agreement regarding liability....?

[Ryan Dunn]

Sounds great that your not paying and its kept up. But yes if something happens who pays? Maybe see if you can find them and see if they are insured to cover any problems that might come up.