Can I Paint My Walls as a Renter? 

Renting can feel limiting. You’re a temporary visitor within a home that you don’t truly have ownership over. But contrary to what you may think, you actually can make a rental feel more like your own. Some landlords are willing to let you put your labor and money into improving their property if they approve of the project beforehand. That can include painting your walls as a renter. 

Making changes to a rental always comes with a risk if you do something that conflicts with your lease agreement. You can potentially lose part or all of your deposit. Be sure to ask your landlord before making any changes to avoid losing money. 

Is It Okay to Paint the Walls in My Rental? 

You might be surprised to learn that almost all landlords will be okay with you painting your apartment—so long as you paint it back before the next tenant moves in. There are a few considerations that you should take if you get approved to paint the walls in your rental.  

It’s important to think ahead when painting your rental walls. You will likely need to restore it to its original color before you move out unless the landlord wishes to keep it. Be sure you don’t treat the wall with any solvents or sealants that will make it harder to repaint. 

Before you start to paint, be sure you prep the walls properly. Tape off the ceiling, light switches, and outlets. It’s also helpful to sand down the walls for a smooth, even application. Be sure to scrub the walls down with a soapy sponge afterward to remove any dust. 

Be sure to find the name and brand of the original wall color so you’ll be prepared to repaint later on. If you decide to go with a bold, dark color for your project, be sure to use a primer when it comes time to paint it back to its original color. This will make it easier to cover. 

Take care not to get paint anywhere it doesn’t belong. 

Some landlords will require a professional to get the job done as a condition to allow your project. If you’re in the Northern Colorado region, Horner Painting is here to help you transform your rental into a space that feels more like “you”.  

What Are Other Ways to Change Up a Rental? 

Looking to customize your rental even more? Well, there are plenty of impermanent, deposit-friendly options to choose from. 

Try using removable wallpaper instead. It can add a fun pop of pattern on all of your walls or an accent wall.  

Change up your counter color and pattern. You can use contact paper on countertops temporarily and simply remove it once it’s time to move. 

Add a stylish new light fixture. It’s fairly easy to replace most ceiling lights. Simply hold on to the original fixture so you can switch it out again once your lease is up. Just be sure to follow best practices when installing the light so you can protect the property and yourself.

Find other temporary switches to match your style. You can replace old cabinet hardware, switch plates, showerheads, bathroom mirrors, and whatever else you can pull off. Just be sure to replace them with the old ones again before moving out. 

Take Ownership of Your Space 

Don’t be afraid to make your space feel like home – even if you’re renting! As long as a change you make is reversible, your landlord will likely be okay with you customizing the home. Some may even be up for a small remodel project such as switching out flooring if you pay for the materials and labor. Just consult with your landlord and see what changes their willing to let you make!