You want to feel comfortable in your living space as a renter. This includes, for many, the addition of decorative elements that help personalize a residence. However, if you rent, the amount of your security deposit you receive back may be considerably impacted by the décor decisions you make.
What alterations you are permitted to make and those that require your landlord’s approval are typically outlined in your lease agreement. However, if you are unclear, you could unintentionally make adjustments that cause a reduction in your security deposit.
The lines between what is permitted and what is not must be understood. Discover how to avoid losing your security deposit by choosing tasteful design and avoiding repair fees.
Causing Damage to the Property
Due to damage from renters’ decorating decisions, landlords frequently take money out of security deposits. It is essential to observe that the damage must be severe enough to necessitate repairs. For instance, if you mounted heavy artwork or shelves on the walls that left large holes, used adhesives that damaged paint or wallpaper, or made other changes to the property that resulted in physical damage, the landlord may deduct the cost of repairs from your security deposit.
The size of the deduction will depend on the severity of the damage. To prevent disagreements regarding the deductions from your security deposit, it is essential to carefully check your lease agreement and comprehend the specifications for design choices and property maintenance.
Failure to Restore the Original Condition
What if, after making alterations to the decor, your lease agreement required you to restore the property to its initial state at the end of the term? The costs involved in restoring the property to its initial condition could then be covered by your security deposit, according to your landlord.
Whether tenants can paint the interior of their rental home is one of the most commonly asked questions by renters. Given that painting a room or a whole house a different color is a simple way to add your own style, it makes sense why this is a common issue among renters.
Check your lease agreement or contact your landlord first, though, before you start making any colorful changes. Many leases indicate that you must return the house in the same condition that you found it, including the wall color.
Violating the Lease Terms
If the restrictions of your lease agreement regarding decor choices were followed without the landlord’s prior approval (e.g., no painting or nailing things to the wall), the security deposit may be withheld as a result. What was and wasn’t permitted in terms of decoration would have been stated in your lease agreement. A lot of tenants fail to put into consideration potential wall damage that could result from mounting framed art, mounted televisions, or other home accents. The cost of repairs rises with the severity of the damage, and even a few nail holes in a wall might diminish the amount of the security deposit that is reimbursed.
Plan your decor with the final result in mind to avoid losing your security deposit. You could choose hangers without nails or avoid wall hangings altogether. Large pieces of art or televisions can function just as well on top of an accent table or cabinet and won’t harm the walls.
Excessive Wear and Tear
It is normal for rental properties to experience wear and tear during occupancy. However, if your choice of décor causes excessive damage, such as heavy furniture causing damage to the floors, or if you fail to maintain the property, the landlord may retain a portion of your security deposit to cover the cost of repairs or replacements.
To prevent floor damage, it is advisable to move heavy furniture with assistance and to position protective material underneath, such as a blanket or moving pad. If you move your furniture around frequently, think about spending money on felt cushioning for the bottom to make the process easier and less likely to result in damage.
Cleaning Costs
If your decor choices or general living practices leave the property in a state of disrepair or excessive filthiness beyond normal wear and tear, your landlord may use a portion of your security deposit to cover cleaning costs.
When renting a home, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll eventually move out, therefore when decorating, keep in mind that you’ll need to return the house or apartment to its original condition. You’re more likely to receive your entire security deposit refunded if there isn’t much restoration work needed.
Check your lease agreement carefully, and if necessary, ask your landlord to explain why they’re retaining your security deposit. You can contest the deductions legally if you believe they are unlawful or don’t follow local regulations. Providing evidence of the property’s condition when you moved in and out can help you dispute the deductions. It is also advisable to communicate with your landlord in order to comprehend their reasoning and, if possible, find a resolution.
This year, do you plan to move into a new rental property? You might be able to find the right one from Real Property Management! Real Property Management Republic has quality rental homes for every taste and budget, so check out our listings today!
Originally Published on September 10, 2021
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