It can be challenging to make a rental property feel like a home. It’s not uncommon for property investors and landlords to limit the ways in which you can modify your living space. However, it is always worth reaching out to the property owner to discuss any changes you would like to make to the property. It’s also worth remembering that creating a homey-feel doesn’t need to involve hammers, paint and nails. There are some easy ways you can revamp your home without seeking permission from the property owner. If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space, sprucing up this area is a simple way to put your stamp on your living space. In this blog, we share seven of our favourite ways to elevate your outdoors.
The Residential Tenancies Act Amendment 2020 (RTAA) introduced some changes for those living in rental properties. Now, there is more leeway for those who wish to make minor changes to their rental. These minor changes could look like; putting up a new pair of curtains, setting up a baby gate, or securing furniture to the walls. If you have any minor changes you would like to make to your rental, send these in writing to the property owner. Consent cannot be unreasonably withheld and they are required to respond to your request within 21 days.
There are simple improvements you can make to your outdoor space, and most don't require landlord consent. You don’t have to call in professional landscapers, and it certainly doesn’t have to break the bank! Redecorating with plants and soft furnishings are just a few easy changes that don’t impact the property’s fixtures and don’t require permission from the property owner. Here are some other ways you can improve your backyard:
First things first, you’ll want to clear the space. Now’s the time to give your yard a little spring clean. Get your gardening gloves out for a bit of garden maintenance. Start by weeding and sweeping up any foliage. This is the perfect time to think about what your yard is missing and how you would like to improve the space. Once your yard is looking spic and span, you can jump into the fun stuff.
Get your hands on some trendy plant pots from the op shops and plant some fresh herbs to display in your yard. Herbs like basil, coriander, mint and parsley grow well in the fresh air. Make your new fresh herb garden a feature of your outdoor space by putting them in on a standing shelf or putting them in a rustic wooden planter. It’ll look great, and you can enjoy the benefits of your new herb plants when cooking.
There’s nothing quite like marvelling at all the colourful flowers in your own garden. Head to your local garden centre and see what flowers catch your eye. If you’ve got a bit of a green thumb, you might want to pick some seeds to plant yourself. If you’re looking for more of a quick fix, you can buy flower pots that are already in full bloom. Choose some funky ceramic pots to liven up your outdoor area. It’s amazing what a little bit of colour can do!
Add some hanging baskets filled with succulents to your yard. Whether you’re going for the full bohemian look or something a little more clean-cut, you can make some DIY hanging baskets to give your outdoor area a makeover. Get some inspiration from Pinterest and check out the online guides to help you create your own hanging baskets. If you’re not feeling very crafty, you can purchase hanging baskets from just about any garden centre or boutique plant shop. This will add some authentic style to your outdoor area. Small changes like these can really transform your rental into a home. Remember to request consent if you need to affix hooks into the house for this.
There’s something so satisfying about eating your own produce. And, although you won’t exactly be living entirely off the land, planting a vegetable garden can be quite a rewarding process. Before you plant your new veggie garden into the soil, be sure to run this past your landlord in writing. Otherwise, there are plenty of vegetables that thrive when planted in raised garden beds or planted directly into a bag of potting mix. This is a great alternative, particularly if there’s not much space in your yard. Before you grow your favourite veggies, see what will flourish in your garden this season.
Make the most of your backyard by adding some garden furniture to the space. If you have a courtyard add a table and chair set to your outdoor area. Alternatively, if you have a grassy lawn, adding some outdoor cushions can make a big difference.
This is the easiest way to drastically transform your outdoor space without seeking the property owner's permission. Enjoy those hot summer days in your new and improved backyard. Be sure to explore the second-hand stores for some epic upcycling bargains! Stores like Bunnings and Mitre 10 often have deals on at this time of year, so you can shop around until you find what you’re looking for.
Dress up the space with a range of accessories. Garden decor can really make a difference to the area. Look at adding floor lanterns, outdoor solar panelled fairy lights, and even soft furnishings like cushions, throws and maybe even a hammock! Keep tabs on the online marketplaces for some affordable outdoor accessories.
When looking to elevate your outdoor space, get in touch with your local Quinovic office. We’re a nationwide team of property management experts and have managed over 100,000 tenancies since 1988. When it comes to legislative matters, we have a professional understanding of all new and existing rental property laws.No matter how big or small your question is, we’ll be happy to help. Ask Quinovic today.
