Well-meaning tenants usually face a common dilemma of decorating their rental properties without violating or breaching property rules.

When you live in a home, who wouldn’t want to make it a good and comfortable living space, and for some, they would like their homes to reflect their personality and style.

Living in a rental property that does not reflect your personality can be frustrating and leave you feeling uninspired. Without the freedom to decorate, it can be challenging to make a rental feel like a home.

However, there are landlords or property investors who impose restrictions on the type of decorations any tenant can make.

But that is not always the case, most of the time, a well-intentioned improvement is not something people usually scorn at, rather a positive step in the right direction as long as proper processes as observed.

What it means to the tenant and landlord

Generally, when you speak about redecorating or upgrading a home’s aesthetics, it is always considered a good thing, right?

Well, not exactly. There are always two sides to the coin when a makeover or redecoration undertaking is planned.

Here are the most common pros and cons;

Pros

It can make the rental property feel more like home.

Redecorating can increase the tenant’s satisfaction with their living space.

A makeover, interior decoration, or renovation can increase the value of the property.

Cons

Tenants may be in violation of their lease agreement if they make changes without permission.

They may be held responsible and shoulder the cost for restoring the property to its original condition when they move out.

Landlords may not like the changes made to the property and it could impact the tenant’s ability to renew their lease.

So, it is wise to tread carefully and here are some very important considerations tenants need to always take to mind.

Before undertaking any decorations or aesthetic upgrades to a rented property, it’s essential for tenants to seek permission from their landlord or property manager.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what is allowed and what is not when it comes to making changes to the rental property.

Here are some expert tips for tenants before undertaking any decorations or upgrades:

Review the lease agreement

Before making any changes to the rental property, tenants should review their lease agreement carefully.

Some landlords may have specific rules or restrictions on what can and cannot be done to the property.

Seek permission from the landlord

Once tenants have reviewed their lease agreement, they should seek permission from their landlord or property manager before making any changes.

This will ensure that the tenant is not in violation of their lease agreement and that the landlord is aware of the changes being made.

Get any approvals in writing

Tenants should make sure to get any approvals in writing from their landlord or property manager. This will surely help to avoid any misgivings or conflicts in the long run.

Consider the cost and effort

Before making any changes, tenants should consider the cost and effort involved in making the changes.

Some changes may be expensive or require a lot of time and effort, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before starting.

There are ways to also apply certain decoration strategies that do not have a damaging or permanent effect on the rental property, which tenants can do to avoid violating any rental property rules.

Use removable wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is a great way to add color and pattern to your rental without leaving a permanent mark. This type of wallpaper is easy to install and remove without damaging the walls. With the vast range of colors and patterns, you can choose a design that suits your taste.

Easy-to-install or hang-on curtains

Curtains can add warmth and texture to your rental property. Hanging curtains can make your rental feel more homely and create a sense of privacy.

You can use tension rods to hang curtains without drilling holes in the walls.

Add temporary lighting

Lighting can change the mood of a room and create a cosy atmosphere.

Adding temporary lighting can transform your rental and make it feel more like home. You can use floor lamps or table lamps that do not require hardwiring.

A tenant in Melbourne wanted to add lighting to her rental property but was not allowed to change the light fixtures.

She added floor lamps and table lamps, which created a cozy atmosphere and made her rental feel more homely.

Decorate with potted plants or portable greenery

Plants are an easy way to add color and texture to your rental property and can create a relaxed and calming environment and help purify the air.

You can choose from a range of indoor plants that are easy to care for.

Carpets and rugs

Rugs can add warmth and texture to your rental property and hide any unsightly stains or marks on the floor.

You can choose from a range of colors and patterns that suit your taste.

Command hooks and strips

Command hooks and strips are a renter’s best friend.

They are easy to install and remove without leaving any marks or damaging the walls. You can use them to hang artwork, mirrors, and even shelves.

Temporary wallpaper

If you don’t want to commit to using removable wallpaper, temporary wallpaper is another option. It’s easy to install and remove and comes in a range of colors and patterns.

For example, a tenant in Sydney wanted to add color to her rental property but was not allowed to paint the walls.

She used removable wallpaper in a floral pattern, which transformed her rental into a stylish and comfortable space.

Stick-on tiles

Stick-on tiles are an excellent way to add a pop of color or pattern to your rental property. They can be easily installed over existing tiles and removed without damaging the walls.

A Brisbane tenant wanted to add some color to her bathroom but was not allowed to change the tiles. She used stick-on tiles in a geometric pattern, which added a fun and modern touch to the bathroom.

Furniture and décor pieces

Investing in furniture and decor that you love can make your rental feel more like home.

Look for pieces that are versatile and can be used in different spaces. You can also choose decor that reflects your personality and style.

A tenant in Perth wanted to add some personality to her rental property but was not allowed to paint the walls.

She purchased furniture and decor that reflected her style and added removable wall decals to add a pop of color to the walls.

Wall art or framed paintings

Wall art can add color and personality to your rental property.

You can use removable wall decals, artwork, or even tapestries to add a pop of color to your walls.

Conclusion

Decorating a rental property can be a challenge, but there are many ways to add personality and style without breaking the rules.

Using removable wallpaper, curtains, temporary lighting, plants, rugs, Command hooks and strips, temporary wallpaper, stick-on tiles, furniture and decor, and wall art are all great options.

By using these tips, you can transform your rental into a stylish and comfortable space that feels like home.

Remember, it’s important to check with your landlord or property manager before making any changes to your rental property.