Can I Paint a Room in My Rental?

Many people want to make a rental feel more like home, and painting is a common way to do that. This article explains when painting is allowed, what approvals you need, and what must happen before you move out.

Paint can dramatically change how a home feels — and how it looks for the next resident. Clear guidelines help you personalize your space without surprise charges or conflicts over the property's condition.

1. Always Get Written Approval First

   1. Do not paint any walls, trim, doors, or cabinets without written permission from us.

   2. Verbal conversations aren’t enough; we need a clear record of what’s approved.

2. Approved Colors and Quality

   1. If painting is allowed, we may provide:

      1. Approved color options (often neutral tones).

      2. Minimum paint quality standards (sheen, brand, or equivalent).

   2. Bright, dark, or highly personalized colors may be declined or require you to repaint back to the original color before move-out.

3. Surface Preparation & Workmanship

   1. Paint must be applied professionally, with clean lines and no drips, overspray, or paint on ceilings, trim, or flooring.

   2. You’re responsible for protecting floors, outlets, and fixtures.

4. Repainting Before Move-Out

   1. Unless we’ve specifically agreed to keep your colors for future tenants, you may need to:

      1. Restore walls to the original color, and

      2. Repair any damage (patching, sanding, etc.).

   2. If walls require extra work or professional repainting, costs may be deducted from your security deposit.

5. What’s Not Allowed

   1. Painting cabinets or countertops.

   2. Texturing walls or ceilings.

   3. Painting fireplaces, appliances, or any exterior surfaces.

1. Send a message through your tenant portal or email with:

   1. The room(s) you’d like to paint.

   2. The proposed color(s) (attach photos or manufacturer names if possible).

   3. Whether you plan to repaint back to the original color at move-out.

2. Wait for a written response from us before buying paint or starting work.

3. If approved, follow any conditions we list (paint type, color, or repaint requirements).

4. Keep photos and receipts of the work in case there are questions at move-out.

• Caring for Your Unit – Everyday habits that keep your home in good shape.

• Wall Hangings – How to hang decor without causing damage.

• How We Handle Your Security Deposit – How move-out condition affects your refund.

• General Rules – Overall expectations for using and caring for the property.