How This Renter Persuaded Her Landlord to Cover the Cost of a Reno

Photography byKeyanna Bowen,ByGarrett Fleming

UpdatedOct 12, 2018 3:37 AM EDT

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Photographer and interior design blogger Keyanna Bowen has always lived by the motto “you have not because you ask not,” yet in 2017 she tested the adage like never before. At the time, she and her husband had just discovered a wonderful apartment in their dream neighborhood in Salisbury, Maryland, but the rental’s 1950s kitchen left a great deal to be desired. “From the cabinets to the floors, everything was beat up, dated, and dingy-looking,” recalls Bowen.

Before signing the lease, Bowen boldly appealed to her landlord and persuaded him to invest in a transformative, $1,900 rehab that would lend the kitchen the same “organic, coastal vibe” as the rest of the home. Below, she walks us through how she crafted a rock-solid design plan, earned her landlord’s trust, and drafted a renter-friendly construction contract.

Bowen knew she stood a better chance of securing her landlord’s approval if the renovation held universal appeal, so she focused on timeless details that most future renters would find attractive, such as crisp white tile and beadboard paneling. If you prefer a more personal touch, Bowen suggests exploring temporary options like removable peel-and-stick flooring that the next tenant can easily swap out if your selection isn’t to their taste.

Landlords gravitate toward building materials that are affordable and easy to source, Bowen notes, so skip options from online boutiques with limited stock. (In short: If it isn’t carried at a local hardware store, it isn’t going to fly.) Also weigh how much upkeep your materials will demand over time. Stains in butcher block countertops like Bowen’s, for instance, can quickly be sanded away.

Use your monthly rent as a starting point when shaping a budget for your refresh. According to Bowen, that figure offers an indication of how much your landlord values their property. Be prepared to invest some of your own money and labor into the project, too. This give-and-take will not only keep the landlord’s costs down but demonstrate that you’re committed to making the reno a success. Bowen’s design plan, specifically, cost $1,900 ($500 of that being her own cash) and included the following simple yet effective DIYs: painting the walls and cabinetry (Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace and Behr’s Ultra Pure White, respectively), spray-painting the drawer pulls black, installing a new backsplash and countertop, and restoring the Dutch door.

Gather inspiration photos to get your landlord excited; compile a list of materials for them to review; assemble a specific timeline—a presentation (whether digital or analog) will further demonstrate that you’re serious.

Alongside that, draft an addendum to your lease that not only specifies exactly what work you are proposing but safeguards you in case the landlord doesn’t approve of the results. (Be sure to have a lawyer or realtor review your wording.) Bowen’s states: “It is understood that the tenants may perform the work themselves or hire a contractor at their discretion. It is at the tenants’ discretion to deem the work satisfactory. Landlord may review the work upon completion. If Landlord deems the completed work unsatisfactory, however, tenant will not be held responsible for any costs or labor associated with changes the Landlord wants made.”

Arrange a face-to-face or Zoom meeting with your landlord to present your proposal so nothing gets lost in translation. Chances are they have never had this conversation with a tenant before, and no matter how persuasive you are, they may be somewhat skeptical of handing over a check on the spot. If you encounter this, take a cue from Bowen and sweeten the deal by offering to have the costs deducted from your rent over time.

If you are truly fortunate, your landlord may even welcome your thoughts on additional ways to elevate your rental. Bowen’s was so receptive, she is planning to take on her bathrooms next: “He says he hit the tenant jackpot.”

Introducing Domino’s new podcast,Design Time,where we explore spaces with meaning. Each week, join editor-in-chief Jessica Romm Perez along with talented creatives and designers from our community to explore how to create a home that tells your story.Listen now and subscribefor new episodes every Thursday.

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