For most of the time the landlord-tenant relationship runs smoothly. When you have settled into your new home, however, you might be tempted to change a few things.
It’s vital to check your tenancy agreement before you make any major alterations to your living arrangements. It might be that these are covered in the wording of the agreement in some form. For example, it might state clearly that you’re not allowed to have pets or that you can’t decorate.
Some landlords are more flexible than others and if you have a good relationship with them most reasonable requests can be worked out.
Top tip: If you are in any doubt, ask. Even if something is not contained in the tenancy agreement, it is best to check before you act.
Getting a Pet
Some landlords don’t mind pets, others refuse to allow them. It can depend on several different factors as well as the type of pet. If you live in a flat and want to get a large breed dog, for example, the landlord might be concerned about the potential disturbance to other residents as well as the animal’s welfare. You may be more successful with your request for a pet if you rent a whole house as a family and can show that you’ll be responsible owners. Bear in mind, though, that any damage to the property caused by a pet will need to be rectified at your own cost.
People Living in the Property
One thing that can put you in a spot of hot water with your landlord is if you start moving extra people into the property and they begin living there permanently. This will be against most tenancy agreements. Should you want another person to live in the property with you then permission will be needed from your landlord. Bear in mind, they may wish to add to the rent payable to cover the person living there. Before you invite anyone else to live in your rented home check tenancy agreement and with your landlord or agent.
Switching Energy Supplier
Switching energy provider is a little less contentious if you are paying the bills directly. The landlord will most likely not have a problem if you are looking to save money on the bills. But it is common practice to let them know that you are switching, to whom and when that is going to happen.
Painting, Decorating and Gardening
While you may not like the colour scheme in your home, that doesn’t mean you can run down to B&Q and get some new paint and start to redecorate. While some landlords might be open to allowing you to redecorate, most will want some say in the work being done. If permission is granted to change the décor it may be at the stipulation that it is returned to the original décor when you move out.
If you want to change the layout, structures or planting in the garden you also need to run it by your landlord. They may prefer to get someone in to do it for you which will most likely be at your cost or might not want you to undertake the work at all. Again, it’s important to check your tenancy agreement to understand where you stand.
Undertaking Repairs
Accidents and damage can happen at any time and things in the property might fall into disrepair. It is important to discuss repairs with your landlord as not all will be your responsibility. The building itself is usually the landlord’s responsibility and they will arrange wear and tear repairs to the fixtures and fittings.
Open Communications
Always keep a copy of your rental agreement handy so that you can refer to it. It’s always better to ask before you act if you are unsure. Informing your landlord of any changes that may be covered under the tenancy agreement is key. As with all relationships, open communication works best.
