Most renters refuse to spend a dime on apartment renovations because they don’t own the property, but there are ways to personalize your space without breaking the lease agreement. Homeowners have much more leeway when it comes to renovations, but some changes may require permits and approval from the local condo or homeowners association.
Whether you’re an owner or a renter, here’s what you need to know about renovating your apartment:
- Can you renovate your apartment?
- Why you should consider renovating your apartment.
- Renovation ideas for your apartment.
Can You Renovate Your Apartment?
It is possible to renovate your apartment, but the type of work that can be done depends on whether you’re the renter or the owner of the unit.
“Renters should get written permission from their landlord before making any irreversible alterations to the rental unit. When they make reversible changes, renters should restore the unit to its original state before they move out,” explains G. Brian Davis, co-founder of SparkRental, a property management software company. “Otherwise, they risk the landlord withholding some or all of their security deposit in an effort to restore it.”
If you own the unit and plan to make irreversible changes, you may need permission from your condo or homeowners association. Permits may also be required for major renovations. Check with your local municipality before starting any work.
Generally, you’re free to remodel the interior of your home without the approval of your HOA. Exterior projects may require HOA board approval, as your individual unit is viewed as secondary to the overall welfare of the entire community. You can find your HOA’s guidelines in the covenants, conditions and restrictions established by the association, but in general you may need board approval for:
- Renovations visible from the exterior of your home.
- Moving or adding