Clients often ask us what they can or cannot do, what is or is not allowed in order to make their rental property into a home. Can you “customise” the property to match your family’s personal tastes without risking losing your security deposit?
The answer is yes, but common sense must prevail and if you are in any doubt then always check with the Letting Agent or Managing Agent first.
Everything is negotiable, or is it…….?
If you would like any changes to the colour scheme or redecoration of the property this needs to form part of your “wish list” when you make the offer, not after the offer has been accepted. Redecoration costs time and money and needs to be planned before your tenancy commencement.
If you want to find a rental property which is furnished you should bear in mind that the furniture you see is very likely to be the furniture which will remain and invariably it is not brand new furniture. For a Landlord to remove and store it costs money, as well as the cost of buying new furniture.
Landlords cannot charge more for a furnished rental property so there is little incentive for a Landlord to furnish. Most tenants, if they have the time would prefer their own furniture. And the soft furnishings are definitely the way to make your rental property into your home.
Landlords are usually more receptive to changes with longer term tenants, of more than one year. For example: for a long term rental, if you do not like the curtains or blinds which are in situ the Landlord may be prepared to change these prior to the tenancy commencement.
Lighting
It is best to agree from the outset if any light fittings can be changed and who will pay the cost, ideally this should be done prior to the tenancy commencement and at the Landlords cost, so your Inventory will remain the same.
If a Landlord agrees to you changing the light fittings after your tenancy commencement, this will be at your cost and you will need to keep the original light fittings and reinstate them when you leave the property. Always use a qualified Electrician to carry out any work and ensure no additional holes are made in the walls or ceilings.
Gardens
Gardens in most rental properties are generally mature and well tended. In some rental properties the cost of a regular gardener is included. However if the cost of a gardener is not included then it is the tenants responsibility to maintain the garden to a good standard This will mean the grass has to be cut and keep the boarders weed free. Very few tenants want to change or do anything to a garden and if you do it is best to get permission from the Landlord before undertaking any landscaping. Of course there is no need to ask about planting up patio pots or creating a small herb garden.
Tip: Before you change anything, ask permission from the Landlord and use common sense, your Tenancy states the property should be returned in the condition it was at the beginning of the tenancy. Most Inventory Reports and Inventory Clerks take photographs which are included on the Inventory Report, you can of course take your own additional pictures for inclusion.
For more information about any Relocation requirements contact the experts Premier Corporate Relocation,
Please contact Barbara on + 44 (0) 1962 793100, / +44 (0) 7770 815325 or via email.