Redecoration in rental properties can seem a bit of a minefield, can’t it? You’ve found a place to rent, but it’s not quite “you” yet. With so many of us working from home these days, it’s only natural to want to make your space feel more personal. But then the dreaded question arises: can I decorate? Will it risk my deposit? And what if I’m not allowed to touch a thing? Fear not, because we’re here to guide you through the dos and don’ts of making a rented property truly feel like home—without stepping on the wrong side of your tenancy agreement.
First Things First: Check Your Tenancy Agreement
Before you even think about grabbing a paintbrush or a hammer, it’s absolutely vital to read your tenancy agreement thoroughly. Most landlords will include a list of what tenants can and can’t do when it comes to redecoration in rental properties. You might find clauses like:
- No painting the walls
- No drilling or putting holes in the walls
- No adding shelves or making permanent changes
If you’re planning on making some changes to the place you’re renting, it’s a good idea to chat with your landlord or letting agent before you sign anything. If they’re likely to want to make the space feel more like home, you could ask if they’d allow certain alterations, like adding a few shelves or giving the walls a fresh coat of paint.
Could Redecoration Your Rental Property Affect Your Deposit?
Now, this is where tenants can feel a bit of pressure. Any unauthorised redecoration in rental properties could mean losing some or all of your deposit. Even if you think you’re improving the space, your landlord might need to undo those changes when you leave, and that could come out of your pocket.
So, while a fresh coat of paint or a new shelf might seem like an improvement, it’s always best to get the green light from your landlord first, in writing. If they’re happy with the idea of changes, make sure you’re clear on what needs to be restored before you move out. That way, your deposit stays safe and sound.
Can Landlords Say Yes to Redecoration in Rental Properties?
The good news is that some landlords might be open to the idea of tenants redecorating rental properties—especially if it benefits the property. The key here is communication. If you want to make changes like painting walls or adding furniture, approach your landlord. If they see that your plans improve the look of the property, they might say yes.
It’s also worth mentioning that some developments—like Blackhorse Mills in East London—were actually designed to encourage tenant redecoration. These places give you the freedom to make changes and even choose from various furniture packs. If you’re renting from a more progressive landlord, you might just be in luck.
Reversing Changes: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning on making some temporary changes, like hanging shelves or putting up pictures, it’s important to know what you’ll need to do when it’s time to leave. Many landlords will allow you to make small changes, but they’ll expect you to reverse them when you move out—filling in holes, patching up paintwork, and restoring the property to its original condition.
Always check with your landlord about these things in advance. That way, there are no surprises when the time comes to hand the keys back.
Smart, Temporary Solutions for Personalising Your Rental
So, what can you do if you’re really keen to personalise the space but can’t make permanent changes? Don’t worry—you’re not stuck with a dull, bland rental property. There are plenty of clever, temporary ways to inject your personality into the space. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Style with Accessories
Rugs, cushions, throws, and lampshades are fantastic for introducing colour and personality into a room without any major changes. They’re easy to move, and you can take them with you when you move to the next place. - Lean, Don’t Hang
Don’t have permission to hang things on the walls? Try the leaning technique. Place mirrors, framed pictures, or even a statement shelf against the wall—no holes required! Just add felt pads to protect the paint. - Use Removable Wallpaper and Decals
If you’re itching to add some pattern or colour to the walls, removable wallpaper and peel-and-stick decals are perfect. They’re easy to apply, and when you leave, they peel right off—leaving no damage behind. - Temporary Wall Fixtures
If you can’t drill into the walls, try using removable adhesive hooks or strips to hang your pictures or shelves. These can hold weight and come off cleanly when it’s time to move out.
Stay Within the Boundaries of Your Tenancy Agreement
It’s tempting to make bold changes when you want to make a place feel like home, but the most important thing is to stay within the boundaries of your tenancy agreement. You don’t want to fall foul of the rules and risk losing your deposit. Instead, get creative with temporary solutions that can have a big impact without breaking the bank or the rules.
For tenants moving into rental properties, knowing your rights and responsibilities around redecoration can make all the difference. If you need advice or help understanding the rules, get in touch with Adleo Relocation. We’ll guide you through every step, so you can enjoy your rental property without the worry.
Speak to one of our experts or send a message today and find out how we can add value to your relocation programme.
