14th January 2020
Q: My tenant wants to repaint at his own cost. Is there any reason why I shouldn’t allow this?
A: Wow, sounds like you have a great tenant there! To be honest, unless you have just had the place redone from top to bottom, then we do not see any reason why you shouldn’t allow this.
That being said, we would recommend adding a few conditions when providing him permission to do so. For example, that the works are done by a professional or to a professional standard, and you inspect the work once this has been done (not an unreasonable request). Another example is approval of colour as you do not want him to choose the cheapest paint in the world or picking lime greens and deep purples!
Find out what look he wants to achieve, you may even give him input or ideas that he never thought of before.
Now, if this sounds a little too hands on for your liking, simply give him the permission to do this on the agreement that the wall/room is returned to a neutral or original colour at the end of his tenancy, also at his own cost.
Remember, all agreements should be in writing.
Having your tenants paint or personalise the property is really the best thing ever. Most tenants that want to make your house their home lead to long term tenancies.
If you need any other lettings guidance, please do get in touch.