Renting gives you flexibility and freedom, but there are certain restrictions on what you may do in a rented home. While specifics vary by landlord and agreement, here are some of the fundamental do’s and don’ts of renting a home and your guide to renting a house.
1 Don’t make major renovations
Not renovating is one of the most essential items on this list of do’s and don’ts of renting. Your rental agreement should also specify how upgrades will be handled upon move-out. The owner who didn’t realise you installed ceiling fans in all of the bedrooms may be pleased to learn that you enhanced his or her home, but he or she may not want to compensate you for the installation costs. You’ll be responsible for patching/texturizing and re-painting the ceilings if you decide to take your fans with you when you move out. One method to personalise and improve your kitchen and bathroom is to replace the cabinet hardware. But first, make sure to verify with your landlord.
2 Don’t use a hammer for all of your projects
Most landlords will allow you to hang a few pictures, and you may use ornamental rods to hang curtains. Aside from that, every decorating concept that includes the use of a hammer should be carefully considered. To put it another way, forget about installing cupboards in the bathroom or using wainscoting to give architectural character.
That isn’t to suggest you can’t use other methods to embellish. If you have black or white appliances, for example, you can easily modernise them. Consider covering the dishwasher and refrigerator with stainless steel appliance covers. These coverings are available in two styles: peel-and-stick and magnetic, and they may immediately refresh and change the area.
3 Contribute to the property’s upkeep.
One of the most essential dos when it comes to the dos and don’ts of renting is to keep the property up to date. Your landlord is liable for repairs, but it is your responsibility as a tenant to notify management when something is wrong with your apartment. You should report any concerns as quickly as possible, whether it’s a leaking faucet or a broken stove knob. If a minor issue becomes a major one as a consequence of your carelessness – for example, if your unit has hardwood flooring in the kitchen and you let a leaking dishwasher destroy them – you might be held liable for the costs of repairs. In terms of home pests, your landlord may or may not be liable for pest management; nonetheless, you must maintain your unit clean to avoid attracting bugs.
4 Invest in renter’s insurance.
The landlord is liable for the unit itself in the event of theft, fire, flood, or other disaster. Your own belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and technological equipment, are, nevertheless, your responsibility. You may also be held responsible for medical and legal expenses if someone is hurt in your flat. Renters insurance is a smart investment since it protects you from these unanticipated events, which is why your landlord may demand it.
There are several key do’s and don’ts when it comes to renting. The most important thing to know while renting is that it isn’t officially your house, so you won’t be able to make substantial modifications. Before making any major changes or improvements, consult with your landlord. And, while the rental unit isn’t entirely yours, it is yours for the time being, which means you are responsible for maintaining it and keeping it in excellent working order. Any serious issues, on the other hand, will be your landlord’s responsibility.