The landscape of the private rental sector in the UK is shifting dramatically, with landlords increasingly opening their doors to tenant customisation as a result of the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill. Recent research by OSB Group reveals that 73% of landlords are now open to allowing tenants to personalise their rented homes—a significant change in attitude that highlights how the rental market is evolving in response to both tenant expectations and new legislation.
The Rising Demand for Customisation
Traditionally, many landlords have been reluctant to allow tenants to make alterations to rental properties. The idea of decorating, painting walls, or installing shelves often seemed like an unnecessary risk, especially with concerns about potential damage or the costs associated with returning a property to its original condition. However, as the rental market has changed, so too have tenant expectations.
More renters are opting to remain in long-term tenancies, seeing their rental properties as their home rather than a temporary place to live. With this shift comes a desire for a space they can make their own. Many tenants want the freedom to decorate, choose furniture, and personalise their surroundings—something they would likely do if they were homeowners.
This change in mindset, where tenants seek a sense of ownership even without buying the property, has prompted landlords to reconsider their policies. Offering tenants more flexibility to customise their homes can foster a deeper sense of attachment, which in turn can lead to longer tenancies and more stable rental agreements.
Landlords’ Evolving Approach to Customisation
For many landlords, embracing tenant customisation represents a departure from old-fashioned rental agreements. However, the benefits are clear: tenants who feel more at home are likely to stay longer, reducing the costs and time involved in finding new renters. Research shows that 34% of landlords are actively engaging with tenants about their decoration plans, while 20% are even choosing to provide professional tradespeople to help with the changes.
Despite this growing trend towards flexibility, landlords are still keen to protect their investment. Nearly half of landlords expect tenants to cover the costs of decorating, while others are keen to ensure that any changes made are not detrimental to the property’s condition. As a result, agreements regarding the scope of customisation are often made in writing, with tenants expected to restore the property to its original state at the end of their tenancy if necessary.
Navigating the Renters’ Rights Bill
The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, which will introduce significant changes to the way the private rental sector operates, has had a mixed reception among landlords. While some view the bill as a necessary step toward a fairer, more transparent rental market, others are concerned that it may reduce their ability to manage their properties as they see fit. In particular, fears that the legislation may limit landlords’ control over rent levels or make it harder to regain possession of their properties are prevalent.
That said, the evolving trend of tenant customisation aligns with some of the goals of the Renters’ Rights Bill, such as creating a more stable and secure rental market. The legislation is expected to make it easier for tenants to remain in properties for longer periods, which could benefit both tenants and landlords by reducing turnover and fostering better long-term relationships.
Final Thoughts
As the rental market evolves in response to shifting tenant expectations and upcoming legislative changes, landlords have an opportunity to adapt by embracing tenant customisation. By allowing tenants to personalise their living spaces, landlords can foster a stronger sense of attachment to the property, leading to longer tenancies and reduced vacancy rates. However, it’s crucial for landlords to strike the right balance, ensuring that any customisation is done within reasonable limits and with clear agreements in place to protect their investments. With careful management, tenant customisation can be a win-win for both parties in the changing landscape of UK rental law.
