As a renter, you want your living space to be pleasant. This includes, for many, the addition of decorative elements that help personalize a residence. If you are a tenant, though, your decorating decisions could have a big impact on how much of your security deposit you receive back.
Your lease agreement typically specifies which changes you may make without the landlord’s consent and which ones do. However, if you are uncertain, you may make alterations that result in a deduction from your security deposit.
It is essential to understand what is permitted and what is not. Find out how to avoid losing your security deposit by choosing decorator-friendly options and avoiding repair fees.
Causing Damage to the Property
Landlords frequently deduct security deposits due to tenant-inflicted damage caused by their decor choices. It’s crucial to remember that the damage must be severe enough to require repairs. For instance, if you mounted heavy artwork or shelves on the walls that left large holes, used adhesives that damaged paint or wallpaper, or made other changes to the property that resulted in physical damage, the landlord may deduct the cost of repairs from your security deposit.
The size of the deduction will depend on the severity of the damage. To prevent disagreements regarding the deductions from your security deposit, it is essential to carefully check your lease agreement and comprehend the specifications for design choices and property maintenance.
Failure to Restore the Original Condition
Suppose you made changes to the decor and your lease agreement said you were responsible for restoring the property to its former state at the end of the lease. In such a case, your landlord may use your security deposit to cover the costs associated with returning the property to its initial condition.
The ability to paint the interior of a rental home is one of the most commonly asked questions by renters. Changing the paint color is a simple way to personalize a room or an entire home, so it’s understandable that this is a common concern.
However, prior to picking up a paintbrush, you must first consult your lease agreement or communicate with your landlord. The condition of the home must be returned in its original state, including the wall color, according to many leases.
Violating the Lease Terms
If the restrictions of your lease agreement regarding decor choices were followed without the landlord’s prior approval (e.g., no painting or nailing things to the wall), the security deposit may be withheld as a result. What was and wasn’t permitted for decor would have been specified in your lease conditions. Many tenants fail to take into account the possible wall deterioration brought on by mounting framed art, televisions, or other home accents. Even a few nail holes in a wall can result in a reduction of the security deposit, and the cost of restorations rises in proportion to the extent of the damage.
To avoid losing your security deposit, you have to plan your decor with the end result in mind. You could choose hangers without nails or avoid wall hangings altogether. Large pieces of art or televisions can function just as well on top of an accent table or cabinet and won’t harm the walls.
Excessive Wear and Tear
It is normal for a rental property to experience wear and strain over the course of a tenancy. 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.
To prevent floor damage, it is advisable to move heavy furniture with assistance and to position protective material underneath, such as a blanket or moving pad. Consider purchasing felt padding for the bottom of your furniture if you move your furniture frequently to make it easier to rearrange your décor and reduce the likelihood of damage.
Cleaning Costs
Your landlord is allowed to deduct cleaning costs from your security deposit if your interior design choices or general living habits cause the property to be excessively dirty or in need of repair beyond normal wear and tear.
It’s important to keep in mind that you’ll eventually move out of a rental property, so when decorating, keep in mind 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. If you believe that the deductions are unjustified or do not comply with local regulations, you can challenge them legally. You can argue against the deductions by providing evidence of the property’s condition both when you moved in and when you left. It is also advisable to communicate with your landlord in order to comprehend their reasoning and, if possible, find a resolution.
This year, do you plan to move into a new rental property? You might be able to find the right one from Real Property Management! Real Property Management Paradise has quality rental homes for every taste and budget, so check out our listings today!
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