BlogThe Do’s and Don’ts of Decorating Your Rental

The Do’s of Renter-Friendly Decorating

Do Ask for Permission First
Some landlords and property managers are flexible about decor upgrades like painting or minor renovations, so check before making permanent changes. However, you most likely have to return the home to its original condition before you move out.

Do Use Removable Adhesives
One of our best tips for decorating your rental home? Use Command hooks to hang pictures or mirrors, and use temporary peel-and-stick wallpaper. When applied and used correctly, these allow for quick personalization without damaging your walls when removed.

Do Invest in Portable Furniture and Lighting
Furniture and lighting are the easiest ways to make a room reflect your style and comfort. Portable items such as statement chairs, floor lamps, or standalone shelving units can enhance your space without altering a home’s structure. And stylish, well-placed lighting can create warmth and atmosphere — especially helpful for rental homes with limited or harsh overhead lighting.

Do Bring in Plants
Plants add life and colour to your rental while not altering the space. Plus, plants can improve air quality, create a calming atmosphere, and are a budget-conscious yet high-impact element for renter-friendly decorating. Consider indoor plants like succulents, hardy, larger-scale plants like fiddle leaf fig trees, or air plants.

We also suggest herbs! They not only add green, but some add a pleasant scent… and you can use them for cooking. 

Do Opt for Area Rugs and No-Damage Curtains
Soft furnishings add depth and coziness to a home and are yet another great solution for how to personalize a rental house without causing damage. Rugs and curtains can change the look and feel of your rental instantly. Rugs don’t cause permanent changes and can help cover unsightly floors. Some of the best rugs to consider for rental apartments? Synthetic ones (for cost) and ones that are machine washable.

As for curtains, they can enhance windows with a less-than-ideal view (or frame beautiful views) and add privacy. Just be sure to use hanging systems like tension rods or Command curtain hooks for damage-free installation.

The Don’ts of Decorating Your Rental

Don’t Paint Without Permission
Painting may seem like a quick answer for how to personalize a rental house, but bear in mind a few things. First, many leases specify that painting is not allowed or that it must be reversed before moving out.

If you do get the go-ahead, repainting could lead to costly repainting fees or losing your security deposit. Instead, use temporary options like peel-and-stick wallpaper or large wall art. It’s always a good idea to ask your landlord or property manager which paint to use in terms of quality, sheen, and ease of painting over afterwards.

Don’t Install Permanent Fixtures
Avoid installing permanent shelving or built-in furniture. Drilling holes or making structural changes may result in damage that you’ll need to repair or pay for later. Instead, opt for renter-friendly furniture that doesn’t require drilling.

Don’t Forget to Budget for Damage Repairs
Consider the costs of reverting any changes you make. Even if your landlord allows you to make certain alterations, you’ll need to return the space to its original state when you move out. Wall holes or stains could lead to deductions from your security deposit.

Personalizing Your Rental While Staying Financially Savvy

Do Consider Your Finances and Timeline
A renter-friendly approach means considering the length of your stay when deciding how much time and money you want to spend decorating the space. And think of versatility, especially if you’re decorating a small space.

Temporary Solutions for Kitchens and Bathrooms
Want to spruce up your rental home’s kitchen or bathroom? Removable kitchen backsplash tiles, floor mats, and textiles like shower curtains, towels and dishcloths are great ways to upgrade these spaces without damage.

Rental Friendly Decorating Tips From Your VADA Property Managers

Decorating a rental is all about balancing how to personalize your rental house while respecting the property. Asking permission, using temporary solutions, and considering your financial situation will help you create a stylish, homey space without jeopardizing your security deposit. When viewing our rental listings, feel free to ask your VADA property manager or landlord about your upgrade ideas.