Yes, you can change things in an apartment, but the extent and type of changes allowed depend on your lease agreement and whether you obtain your landlord's approval.
Understanding Apartment Alterations
Renters often wish to personalize their living space to feel more like home. Based on common rental practices and the provided reference, there are typically different categories of changes, and navigating these is key to avoiding issues with your landlord.
Permitted Changes
According to the reference, renters can personalize their apartment without breaking the lease or the bank. This usually refers to temporary or minor changes that don't cause damage or fundamentally alter the property's structure or appearance.
Examples of personalization might include:
- Hanging pictures or mirrors (using appropriate hardware)
- Painting walls (often requires specific paint types or landlord permission, though the reference implies simple personalization might be possible)
- Installing temporary shelving
- Swapping out showerheads or light fixtures (provided the originals are stored and reinstalled upon moving out)
- Using temporary wallpaper or decals
These types of changes are generally considered part of making the space your own and are less likely to require explicit, written permission, though checking your specific lease is always recommended.
Changes Requiring Landlord Approval
For more permanent changes, it is crucial to make sure to get your landlord's approval in writing. Permanent changes are alterations that are not easily reversible without significant effort or cost, or those that affect the structural integrity or core aesthetics of the unit.
Examples of changes typically considered "more permanent" could include:
- Removing or adding walls
- Replacing flooring or significant fixtures
- Making changes to plumbing or electrical systems
- Major painting projects with unusual colors or finishes
- Installing permanent shelving or built-ins
- Making significant landscaping changes (for ground-floor units with yards)
Obtaining written approval protects both you and the landlord by clearly documenting what was agreed upon.
Consequences of Unauthorized Changes
Ignoring the terms of your lease or making permanent changes without written approval can lead to serious consequences. The reference explicitly states: If you violate the lease agreement, your landlord could keep your security deposit, take legal action or even evict you.
This highlights the importance of understanding what is allowed in your lease and communicating with your landlord about any desired changes beyond simple personalization.
Summary of Change Guidelines
| Type of Change | Landlord Approval Required? | Potential Consequences (if unauthorized) |
|---|---|---|
| Personalization | Generally No (check lease) | Varies, minor issues if damage occurs |
| More Permanent | Yes (in writing) | Loss of security deposit, legal action, eviction (per reference) |
Always refer to your specific lease agreement, as it contains the detailed rules for your rental property. When in doubt about whether a change is considered "personalization" or "more permanent," err on the side of caution and seek written permission from your landlord.
