How to make a rental feel like home whilst keeping your deposit
Renting a property does not mean it has to feel temporary. With the right rental decorating ideas, you can create a comfortable, personal space without risking damage to the property or your tenancy deposit.
The secret is to focus on removable changes, take care of the fixtures and fittings, and always check your tenancy agreement before making alterations to your rented home.
Yes - use soft furnishings and more to add personality
Soft furnishings are one of the easiest ways to make a rental feel like home. Rugs, cushions, throws and curtains can quickly bring in colour, texture and warmth without requiring paint, nails or permanent fixtures.
Freestanding furniture can also make a big difference. Bookcases, sideboards, storage baskets, mirrors and floor lamps can help express your style while remaining easy to take with you when your tenancy ends.
If you are renting a furnished property, check with your landlord or us before removing or storing any furniture provided as part of the tenancy. Your agreement may require these items to remain in the property and be returned in their original condition.
Houseplants are another simple way to bring life into a rental property. Use freestanding pots and saucers to protect windowsills, carpets and flooring from water damage. If you want to add plants or furniture outside, check whether your tenancy agreement includes any rules about the garden or shared areas.
Yes - choose flexible lighting
Lighting can transform the atmosphere of a room without making permanent changes. Table lamps, floor lamps, battery-powered lights and removable lampshades can all add warmth and character.
Avoid altering electrical fittings or installing new lights yourself. If you believe a light, socket or electrical fitting is faulty, report it to us rather than attempting a repair.
Small changes, such as using a warmer-toned bulb where permitted or placing a lamp in a darker corner, can make a noticeable difference while keeping your rental decorating ideas simple and low-risk.
Maybe - check before decorating your walls
Putting up photographs, artwork and shelves can make a house feel much more like your own. However, drilling holes, using unsuitable adhesive strips or attaching heavy items can damage paint, plaster, doors or cupboards.
Before decorating a rented property, read your tenancy agreement carefully. Our example tenancy agreement states that tenants should not redecorate, make alterations or add fixtures without the landlord’s prior written consent, but some landlords won’t mind so long as it’s all made good before you move out.
If you would like to paint a room, apply wallpaper, install shelves or hang a large mirror, make sure you get written permission first. Explain exactly what you would like to do and confirm whether the property must be returned to its original condition when you leave.
Do not rely solely on a verbal conversation. Keeping written permission gives both you and your landlord a clear record of what was agreed.
Remember - protect your rental property
Everyday living can sometimes result in scuffs, marks or accidental damage. Felt pads under chair and table legs can help protect hard floors, while washable throws and furniture covers can protect sofas and dining chairs.
Take extra care with candles, heaters and cooking equipment. Never leave naked flames unattended, and do not cover or remove smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors.
Good ventilation is also important. Use extractor fans where available, open windows when appropriate and report signs of damp, mould or leaks promptly. Urpad’s tenancy guidance highlights the importance of reasonable ventilation and heating to help reduce condensation-related problems.
Reporting repairs early can help prevent a minor issue from becoming more serious and may help you avoid responsibility for damage that was not caused by you.
And - keep photographs and records
Your regular inventory and schedule of condition provide a record of the property’s condition at the start of and throughout your tenancy. You should carefully check the property when you move in and record any existing marks, damage, or missing items.
Take clear, dated photographs and report any concerns in writing as soon as possible. Keep copies of your emails and photographs until after your tenancy has ended.
A tenancy deposit may be used to cover damage, cleaning or other costs for which a tenant is responsible, but deductions should not normally be made for fair wear and tear. The best way to protect your rental deposit is to look after the property, follow the terms of your tenancy agreement and return the home in the condition expected at the end of the tenancy.
Before you hand the keys back
When your tenancy ends, remove your belongings and take down any removable decorations. Clean the property thoroughly and return furniture, fittings and other contents to the condition and position shown in the inventory.
If you had permission to decorate or make a more significant alteration to the property, make sure you know whether you need to restore it to its original condition before leaving. Completing this work before the checkout inspection can help prevent avoidable delays or disagreements.
If you are unsure whether a change is permitted, contact us before you begin. It is always better to ask first than risk damage to your home or deposit.