There are unique challenges with renting a home, but that does not mean one can’t make improvements to have a better living environment. A renter does have limits on permanent changes they could make, but all this doesn’t mean you can’t do things to make it comfortable and stylish without going against your lease agreement. This home improvement checklist for renters points to key areas you may want to put your concentration on when turning your space into your own.
Enhance Lighting
Lighting is one of the most significant aspects of any room, as it dictates the mood and functionality of the space. Though many rentals feature plain, unattractive light fixtures, you are not limited to what is installed. Begin with replacing your light bulbs as part of regular maintenance. Go for energy-efficient LED bulbs since they have a warmer color temperature that gives a cozier ambiance. If your lease allows for such modifications, swap out boring ceiling fixtures with something more trendy, or add ambient lighting to your space with plug-in pendant lights and floor lamps. Just make sure to utilize removable adhesive hooks or clamps when mounting to avoid damaging the walls or ceilings.
Refresh Walls Without Paint
Most landlords will not allow their renters to paint over the walls, but you can give yours some color and texture with these easy, minor techniques. Temporary wallpaper is one super popular way to add pattern or color to a room without making any big commitments. Alternatively, you could hang art prints, photographs, or mirrors on the wall with removable adhesive strips to create a mini-gallery. If you’re one for minimalistic touches, a fabric wall hanging or tapestry can help add a splash of personality without going overboard. Only apply wall treatments that won’t be too difficult to remove at the end of your lease, so you won’t face fines or deductions from your security deposit.
Resolve Plumbing Issues
Plumbing should be maintained as long as you are a renter, for the fact that this will not damage the property and it’s a creation of comfort. Minor problems can be experienced in simple matters such as leaky faucets or slow drains. More serious issues may need the right treatment. Such an example is when you have clogged drains. They worsen when left unattended. Rather than attempting to fix the issue yourself, it’s advisable to hire a professional to unclog blocked drains and resolve any additional plumbing problems. This ensures that the issue gets fixed accordingly to avoid further possible damages to the plumbing system that may lead to costly repairs, which in most cases your landlord may charge to you.
Upgrade Storage Solutions
Storage is typically an issue in a majority of rental homes, particularly when the space is small or the facility is old. Fortunately, being a renter doesn’t forbid you from improving storage facilities without permanent improvements. You can purchase shelving units or modular storage systems that are easy to assemble and dismantle. In vertical storage, from wall-mounted shelves to stackable bins, space is availed without using valuable floor space. Multifunctional furniture can also be in order; for example, ottomans with interior storage or drawers that go under one’s bed provide functional and unobtrusive storage. These will not only keep your home organized but will also add extra aesthetics to your space.
Final Touches for a Personalized Space
It’s the little things that turn a rental into a home. Bring in your sense of style through textiles: curtains, pillows, throws. These textiles are all very easy to switch out seasonally or just because you feel like it, making it easy to give your space a refreshed look without doing a whole new makeover. Other excellent ways to add life and color to your space include plants, which have the added benefit of helping to improve air quality. Also, consider upgrading minor, easily removable fixtures such as cabinet handles, faucet aerators, or showerheads. These minor touch-ups will truly make your rental feel like a personalized, comfortable space while easily keeping you within the lease terms.
In conclusion, you needn’t do full-on renovations, violating your lease agreement in the process, to make improvements to your rental house. With the main focus on renter-friendly upgrades, one can satisfy his urge to stamp a personal taste into his space and improve his quality of life.