Moving in and out
Can I paint or hang pictures in my rental?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Hanging pictures with a few small nails is usually allowed and often counts as normal wear and tear, but painting almost always needs the landlord's written permission. Many landlords approve neutral colors if you agree to repaint before you leave. Check your lease, because some ban nails, adhesive hooks or wall mounts entirely.
Ask in writing before changing anything permanent, and describe exactly what you plan: the rooms, the color, who will do the work, and whether you will repaint at move-out. Save the approval.
Lower-risk ways to make the place yours:
- Adhesive hooks and strips, removed carefully following the instructions so they don't peel paint
- Large mirrors and art leaned against the wall
- Tension rods and freestanding shelves
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper, tested on a small hidden area first because some brands pull paint off
- Swapped light fixtures or cabinet handles, with the originals kept to reinstall
Mounting a TV, putting up heavy shelves, or installing a smart lock or video doorbell usually needs permission, because of the larger holes and wiring. If you get approval, ask whether you should leave the item or restore the wall when you go.
At move-out, fill small holes with spackle if the lease allows it. Skip paint touch-ups unless you have the exact color, since a patch in a slightly different shade can look worse than the holes.
Want the whole picture? Read Renting Your First Apartment: Applications, Leases and Move-in Costs.