As a renter, you want your living space to be pleasant. Many people interpret this as adding decorations that enhance the individuality of a space. 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. But if you’re unsure, you can unintentionally make modifications that cause your security deposit to be deducted later on.
It is essential to be aware of what is permitted and what is prohibited. Find out how to avoid losing your security deposit by choosing decorator-friendly options 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’s crucial to remember that there must be enough damage to warrant repairs. The cost of repairs may be deducted from your security deposit by the landlord, for instance, if you placed bulky artwork or shelves on the walls that left significant holes, used adhesives that ruined paint or wallpaper, or made other changes that physically damaged the property.
The size of the deduction will depend on the severity of the damage. To avoid disputes over security deposit deductions, it is essential to carefully review the terms of your lease and comprehend the requirements for interior design 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. It is understandable that this is a common concern, as altering the paint color is a simple way to personalize a room or a whole house.
However, before you begin painting, you must first consult your lease or speak with your proprietor. 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
The security deposit may be withheld if your lease agreement contained specific requirements on decor choices (such as no painting or nailing things to the wall), and you disregarded them without the landlord’s prior consent. Your lease provisions would have specified what was and was not permitted in terms of interior design. 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.
To avoid losing your deposit, it is crucial to plan your decor with the final result in mind. You could choose hangers without nails or refrain from mounting anything on the walls. Large artwork or televisions can be placed on an accent tables or cabinets without causing damage to the wall.
Excessive Wear and Tear
It is normal for rental properties to experience wear and tear during occupancy. However, if your choice of decor causes excessive damage, such as weighty 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.
It’s best to enlist assistance when moving large pieces of furniture, and to put something protective underneath, like a blanket or moving cushion, to prevent floor damage. 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
Your landlord has the right to take a portion of your security deposit to pay for cleaning costs if your decorating choices or general living habits cause the property to be excessively dirty or in need of repair beyond normal wear and tear.
When renting a home, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll eventually move out. As a result, decorating must be done with the understanding that you’ll need to return the home or apartment to its original state. The fewer repairs required, the more likely it is that your security deposit will be returned in its entirety.
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. If you want to challenge the deductions, you may be able to do so by providing evidence of the property’s condition at the time of your move in and out. It’s also a good idea to talk to your landlord so you can grasp their perspective and perhaps come to an agreement.
This year, do you plan to move into a new rental property? Real Property Management might have the right one for you! Real Property Management Diversified 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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