The intention with apartment decorating is to take a cookie cutter space and turn it into a home all your own. It’s important to understand the apartment complex rental guidelines before starting an apartment decorating project in order to ensure you don’t accidentally create additional unit expenses or incur moving out fines.
Review The Contract Carefully
The first step is to read through the rental contract thoroughly to understand the allowable decorating specifics. For example, some management guidelines allow painting the walls, while others do not. Not knowing the particulars about apartment decorating may result in harsh penalties which could range from additional fees or eviction.
The standard allowance is hanging pictures, within reason and with the expectation the holes will be patched before leaving the unit. Others may allow, as mentioned above, painting the walls with the stipulation, the original paint color will be restored upon lease expiration.
As you read the rental contract, present any decorating plans to the leasing agent. If a verbal agreement is reached about what can be done, insist on a written document stating these specifics or any other exceptions not listed in the original contract. This paper trail created will protect against the possibility of the agent/manager forgetting the conversation or if the original agent has moved on and is no longer representing your unit.
Think “Reversible” When It Comes To Apartment Decorating
The key to allowable apartment decorating is to come up with apartment modifications that are reversible. This simply means the original condition can be restored easily. For example; removing a ceiling fan to install track lighting using the original wiring is acceptable. Hiring a contractor to install canned lighting in original places is not, since this is considered a permanent fixture to the apartment. Some specifics to negotiate into the contract are:
- Flat screen wall hanging hardware
- Installing ceiling fans
- Painting accent walls
- Hanging shelving
- Upgrading faucets
The reversible guideline is just that; a guideline. Do not assume anything, get clarification, and always protect those apartment decorating projects in writing.
Apartment Decorating Security Deposit
Though your apartment decorating projects may be allowed, don’t be surprised if a larger security deposit is required. These larger deposits are designed to protect the leasing agent in case of more significant repairs being requried to repair the damage done from your apartment decorating project. This is a fair trade; if you are confident about your project. The deposit will be returned if the apartment has been left in its original move in condition.
There are significant benefits to renting an apartment but those benefits can be sabotaged by not paying close attention to the allowable apartment decorating guidelines. Surprisingly, there are some apartment complexes that allow for flexibility on a case to case basis. Discuss and negotiate the decorating allowances by getting them in writing before moving in.
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Sue Krippner - After studying art history at Thomas Edison State College with advance studio studies at the University of the Arts in Pennsylvania, I ...
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