Due to the ever-soaring cost of deposits and mortgage rates, many UK residents find renting a property much easier and quicker. While renting does have its advantages, such as a lack of maintenance and repair costs, there are limited options regarding how tenants can change a property to suit their aesthetic preferences. Most landlords and letting agents will permit redecoration provided the property is returned to its original condition once the tenancy has ended; however, aside from a lick of paint, there is little leeway for personalisation. That said, there are ways in which you can make your rented house feel more like a home without making drastic, permanent changes that may lead to deposit deductions. Let’s look at some options. 

Contact Your Landlord

Before you make any changes to your rental property, it is vital that you contact your landlord or letting agent to ask permission. While you may not even require approval for minor changes such as painting, and although you could have every intention to return the property to its original state once you leave, it will all depend on the flexibility and discretion of the property owner. For example, something as inconsequential as hanging pictures could be considered damage to the property, resulting in you having to pay for repairs.

Adhesive Strips For Pictures

In most cases, landlords will permit their tenants to hang pictures in their rental properties. However, legally, your landlord does have the right to refuse even minor changes, including hammering nails into the walls. That said, you can still personalise your rental property with framed photographs, artwork and wall hanging by using adhesive strips. Adhesive strips enable you to hang pictures up with minimal wall damage – cheap, easy and no tools necessary. Most adhesive wall strips won’t damage the property’s paintwork, and you can get rid of any stubborn residue by gently heating it with a hairdryer and rubbing it with a damp sponge. 

Houseplants

House plants are the single most effective way to improve your living space. Proven to reduce stress and boost mood, a small selection of verdant house plants could be an excellent source of pleasure, productivity and personalisation. If you’re relatively new to the magic of houseplants, consider opting for low-maintenance varieties such as spider plants and aloe vera. Once you have some experience, you can start tackling orchids, Boston ferns, and fiddle-leaf figs. 

Create A Feature Wall

Suppose your landlord has given you permission to hang pictures using nails and screws. In that case, you can minimise the inevitable maintenance work once your tenancy ends by confining your wall art to one area. Feature walls provide a decorative focal point, making your space appear larger and brighter. You could also use a feature wall to draw attention to attractive interior features, such as a natural wooden mantel or a statement furniture item. 

Pick Statement Furniture Items

Speaking of statement furniture, it can be an excellent method of adding personality to a living space without making any changes whatsoever. Ideal for attracting attention and showcasing your individuality, statement furniture pieces can make your home a unique sanctuary full of creativity and personality. Consider a vibrant velvet sofa, an antique wardrobe or even some painted bedside tables – whatever works as a bold focal point. 

Rugs

One of the disadvantages of renting is you’re usually stuck with the existing flooring, which is often plain, neutral and not of the highest quality. Fortunately, you can spruce up your floors by adding large, statement rugs to match the rest of your decor. Not only can a rug act as an attractive focal point, but it can make a room feel more cosy and inviting. Furthermore, rugs have insulating properties, retaining heat and increasing the temperature of a space. 

Upgrade Kitchen Unit Knobs And Handles

Another fantastic idea for a minor, easily-reversible change is to upgrade your kitchen unit hardware. Replace tired drawer handles and dated cupboard door knobs with something suited to your desired aesthetic. For instance, you could opt for classy, timeless brass for a vintage feel or add a splash of colour with vibrant, custom-painted ceramic drawer pulls. Replacing your drawer and cupboard hardware is relatively straightforward – all you need is a screwdriver and a steady hand.