{"id":681,"date":"2022-02-01T10:36:36","date_gmt":"2022-02-01T10:36:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lofty.oneclick-sandbox.com\/?p=681"},"modified":"2022-12-13T19:48:18","modified_gmt":"2022-12-13T19:48:18","slug":"what-tenants-redecorate-change-improve-rental-property","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loftypropertymanagement.com\/what-tenants-redecorate-change-improve-rental-property\/","title":{"rendered":"The Dos and Don\u2019ts of Rental Unit Renovations"},"content":{"rendered":"

As a landlord, you’re likely to face requests for renovations from tenants at some point<\/a>. It can be difficult to know how to react when this happens – after all, you don’t want to upset your new tenants or cause any damage!<\/p>\n

Tenants may want to repurpose a room, get rid of old cabinets, or cut down trees in the backyard. While you may be tempted to say no, it’s important to remember that most renovation requests are reasonable and can be worked out amicably. However, to figure this out and keep your investment in Pacific Beach protected, it\u2019s usually best to hire professional property management.<\/p>\n

In this article, you will learn some do’s and don’ts when it comes to renovations of your rental property, so you can make the right decision when tenants come knocking.<\/p>\n

Can tenants make improvements?<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s true that every rental unit will require improvements from time to time. However, you should be clear about what is expected from tenants and what belongs to the role of a landlord or manager. Of course, it\u2019s all a question of scope, and it\u2019s not advisable to allow tenants to make major renovations. Avoid a common mistake of not having clear boundaries<\/a>, and make sure that you delineate the responsibilities of the tenant and landlord in your lease agreement.<\/p>\n

Keep in mind that, as per state laws in California, tenants can remove improvements they have made and restore the property in initial condition before moving out. When you remove a fixture, it\u2019s the responsibility of the tenant to compensate the landlord or do necessary repairs in order to hide signs of alterations.<\/p>\n

\"Can<\/p>\n

Can tenants redecorate the rental property?<\/h2>\n

As a tenant, you should refrain from starting any redecoration without explicit approval and written permission from your landlord. This is why it\u2019s important to have an open conversation with a prospective landlord about potential changes, before you sign the lease agreement and start the tenancy. Keep in mind: without approval, you cannot hang anything off the walls, install extra shelving, or replace old appliances.<\/p>\n

What changes can tenants make?<\/h2>\n

You should carefully read your lease and rental agreement. If you renovate or make an upgrade without consent, even if it\u2019s an obvious improvement for you, it can be considered damage to the premises. If you don\u2019t have an agreement, anything you leave behind, a cabinet or appliance can become the property of the landlord.<\/p>\n

Here are five examples of changes that tenants can make with minimal conflict:<\/p>\n