5 Rental-friendly home upgrades to personalize your space
Stuck with a bland rental? Try these 5 easy, landlord-approved upgrades to make your space feel like home—without losing your deposit.
Living in a rental doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! With a few simple, budget-friendly upgrades, you can transform your space into a reflection of your personality—without risking your security deposit.
There are plenty of creative ways to make a rental feel like home, from swapping out cabinet hardware to adding an accent wall or updating light fixtures.
These changes are temporary, easy to reverse, and allow you to enjoy a stylish space now while ensuring you leave everything just as you found it when it’s time to move.
Most landlords won’t mind these five renter-friendly home improvements, but it’s always a good idea to check with them first. Reassure them that everything will be returned to its original condition before you move out.
1. Upgrade cabinet hardware
One of the easiest ways to refresh a kitchen or bathroom is by updating the cabinet hardware. Swapping out outdated knobs and handles can instantly modernize the space and make it feel more like your own.
?? Pro tip: Keep the original hardware in a safe place so you can reinstall it before moving out. That way, you can take your stylish upgrades with you to your next home!
2. Add a temporary backsplash in the kitchen
A backsplash adds personality to a kitchen, but installing tile can be expensive—not to mention something your landlord might not approve. Luckily, there are several renter-friendly alternatives:
Removable wallpaper: Easy to apply and remove, though it may take off some paint. Be prepared to touch up the wall if needed.
Contact paper: Works similarly to wallpaper but offers more design options. Keep in mind that removal might also lift some paint.
Paint: A contrasting color or a fun stencil pattern can make a big impact. Before moving out, simply repaint to match the original color.
Peel-and-stick backsplash: Mimics real tile and adds texture but can be trickier to remove. If needed, be ready to patch any damage to the drywall.
3. Swap out light fixtures for a stylish touch
If your rental’s light fixtures don’t match your style, consider switching them out for something that better suits your aesthetic.
Changing a light fixture might seem intimidating, but with the right safety precautions, it’s a DIY-friendly upgrade. If you're unsure, hiring a professional is always an option.
?? Pro tip: Store the original fixture and reinstall it before moving out. Bonus—you can bring your stylish light fixture to your next place!
3. Create an accent wall
An accent wall is a great way to personalize a space without overwhelming the entire room. Paint and removable wallpaper are two budget-friendly options that add style while keeping your deposit intact.
Paint – Go bold with a fun color or stencil a unique pattern. When it’s time to move, use a primer or paint with primer to cover it up.
Removable wallpaper – Comes in a variety of designs and is easy to take down when you’re ready for a change.
5. Cover unsightly countertop with contact paper
If your rental’s countertops are outdated or worn, contact paper can provide an instant refresh. Marble-patterned contact paper, for example, can give the look of a high-end countertop without the commitment.
?? Pro Tip: Choose high-quality, waterproof contact paper for durability. It peels off cleanly, so your countertops will look just as they did before when you remove it.
You don’t have to settle for a space that doesn’t reflect your personality! These simple, reversible home upgrades allow you to customize your rental while ensuring you get your security deposit back.
Which of these renter-friendly upgrades would you try first?
