Renting a home or apartment comes with a certain kind of freedom. No mortgage, less responsibility for major repairs, and the ability to pack up and move when needed. But sometimes, that freedom can feel limited, especially when you’re living in a space that doesn’t quite reflect your style or comfort level. You might be tempted to treat your rental like your own home and start upgrading things to better suit your tastes. While some small improvements are harmless or even reversible, others can end up costing you money, your security deposit, or even your lease. So before you start any home project, it’s worth knowing which changes are best left undone.
1. Replacing the Flooring
The first thing you should never do in a rental is replace flooring. Whether it’s carpet, vinyl, or tile, ripping out what’s already there is a huge red flag to landlords. Flooring is a big-ticket item, and changing it, even if you think you’re upgrading, can be seen as damaging the property. Even worse, if the materials you choose don’t match the building’s standards or cause issues later, you could be on the hook for the cost of restoring it to its original condition.
2. Painting Without Permission
Another major no-go is painting without permission. It might seem harmless to add a splash of color or even repaint an entire room in a neutral tone, but many landlords have strict rules about paint. They often expect the walls to remain the same color, sheen, or finish throughout your lease. And if you go bold (like navy blue or fire-engine red), you’re probably going to have to paint it back before you move out or risk paying for it to be professionally covered.
3. Swapping Light Fixtures or Fans
Next, avoid replacing light fixtures or ceiling fans unless you get it in writing. Swapping out a basic light for something trendier might seem like a win, but electrical work can be tricky and risky if you’re not licensed. Even if you do everything right, your landlord might not appreciate the change or could claim it was done improperly. If you really hate a fixture, your best bet is to carefully remove it, store it safely, and reinstall it when you leave—assuming your lease allows that kind of flexibility.
4. Installing Built-In Furniture or Shelving
You should also steer clear of installing built-ins. That includes bookshelves, cabinets, or anything that screws into the wall in a permanent way. These additions often cause damage and can’t be easily undone. Even if they look beautiful and add storage, your landlord may consider them unauthorized structural changes. In their eyes, it’s not an improvement—it’s a liability.
5. Upgrading Kitchen Appliances
One of the most common mistakes renters make is upgrading kitchen appliances. You might think you’re doing a favor by replacing an old stove or adding a sleek new dishwasher, but landlords typically supply and maintain these items. Installing your own can cause issues with warranties, energy standards, or property value. Plus, when you move out, you may not be able to take the appliance with you, and if you do, you’ll need to reinstall the original, which can be a hassle.
6. Changing Plumbing Fixtures
Be careful not to change plumbing fixtures, either. Swapping out a sink, faucet, or showerhead might seem simple, but it’s not always as straightforward as it looks. Plumbing changes can cause leaks, pressure issues, or even violate building codes. Unless it’s a cosmetic switch like a detachable shower head, it’s best to ask for approval and leave the more involved work to professionals or property managers.
7. Mounting a TV on the Wall
Another improvement to avoid is mounting a TV with a wall bracket, especially without checking your lease first. While a wall-mounted screen saves space and looks sleek, the bracket often requires heavy-duty anchors or drilling, which can damage drywall or even structural components. Many landlords consider it excessive wear and tear, and if the wall isn’t patched properly before you leave, you could lose part of your deposit.
8. Landscaping Without Approval
Lastly, don’t landscape or remove outdoor features without permission. This includes cutting down trees, installing flower beds, or building things like patios or fire pits. While you might think you’re improving curb appeal or creating a nicer outdoor space, landlords typically want to control how the exterior looks. Changes to landscaping can cause long-term maintenance issues and lead to disputes about who’s responsible for upkeep.
What to Do Instead
When you rent, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of making the space your own. But every improvement comes with the risk of upsetting your landlord or violating your lease agreement. Instead of making permanent changes, focus on temporary upgrades, like peel-and-stick wallpaper, plug-in lighting, or removable storage solutions, that can give you the style and function you want without the long-term consequences. Always read your lease, ask for permission, and keep documentation of any approvals.
Have you ever made a change to a rental property and regretted it, or had a landlord give you trouble for something you thought was minor? What’s the one improvement you wish landlords would just allow across the board?
Read More:
Is Your Home Showing These Signs? It Might Be Time for a Renovation
14 Apartment Red Flags: Hidden Dangers in Seemingly Perfect Rentals
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