Once the tenant has moved in and set the property up as their home, it’s only natural that they might want to start making the place feel more personal and comfortable to live in to suit their own particular living requirements and style.
However, while it is their home, it’s still your property.
While most landlords are usually okay with tenants making minor, cosmetic improvements, in most instances, tenants will usually still need to seek your consent before making any alterations and additions.
Again, while it comes down to your specific requirements, it’s best to keep in mind that it’s totally normal for tenants to want to make the property feel like it’s their own home.
This helps them while also helping you.
When tenants make improvements to suit them and their need, they will become more settled and adapted to the property, giving them a sense of ownership and pride in the property which translates into a better maintained and cared for property and longer tenancy.
Again however, tenants should still seek your consent before making any alterations or additions to the property.
If they do make changes without your consent, you are within your right to request the property to be changed back to the same way it was before they moved in.
As a landlord, you’re also within your right to decline some unreasonable requests by tenants.
When a request is made however, it’s usually best to;
Listen and try to understand
Ask why they’ve made the request
Ask who’ll pay for it
Ask what will happen with the alteration/s and/or addition/s at the end of the tenancy agreement
If you want more information on the request, again, just ask.
See if there’s an agreement everyone can come to for a positive outcome for all.
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This information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. We are not financial, legal or tax advisers. You should seek appropriate professional advice specific to you before acting on this information.
