Industry Insights

Make It Yours: The Best Temporary Modifications for Rental Homes

Written by Bettina Diaz | Feb 13, 2025 11:07:53 AM

Renting a home doesn’t mean you have to live with dull walls, outdated fixtures, or a space that doesn’t reflect your personality. The good news? There are plenty of rental-friendly modifications that can transform your space without upsetting your landlord—or risking your bond.

Here’s how to personalise your rental home while staying on the right side of the lease agreement.

1. Use Removable Wallpaper and Decals

One of the easiest ways to add colour and personality to your rental is with removable wallpaper or wall decals. They come in a huge range of patterns and textures, from sleek minimalist designs to bold feature walls. Best of all, they peel off without damaging the paintwork.

If you’d rather leave the application to the experts, a local handyman from ServiceSeeking.com.au can ensure a flawless finish.

2. Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

Lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of a space. Swapping out old, dated light fixtures for modern pendant lights or stylish lamps can make a huge difference.

While plug-in lamps are an easy fix, a licensed electrician can safely install rental-friendly pendant lights or new fixtures that enhance your space—without violating your lease agreement.

3. Temporary Flooring Solutions

Don’t love your rental’s flooring? No worries! Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles, area rugs, and floating floorboards are great options that won’t cause permanent damage. They can hide ugly carpet stains, add warmth to cold tiles, and even create a luxe feel in living spaces.

If you’re after a seamless, professional look, hiring a flooring specialist can help ensure everything is installed correctly and looks fantastic.

4. Hanging Artwork Without Damage

Drilling into walls is usually a no-go in rentals, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with bare walls. Use adhesive hooks, removable strips, or even leaning artwork against walls for an easy, stylish alternative.

Need help planning the perfect gallery wall? A handyman can help position and install artwork securely using rental-safe methods.

5. Add Floating Shelves and Storage

Storage is often an issue in rental properties. Free-standing shelves, modular units, and tension rod shelving are excellent ways to add storage without leaving a mark.

If you need a custom storage solution that maximises space without drilling into walls, a skilled carpenter can design and install something that works perfectly for your rental.

6. Beautify Your Kitchen and Bathroom

If your rental’s kitchen or bathroom is looking a little tired, there are a few quick and easy fixes to refresh the space:

  • Stick-on splashbacks – Peel-and-stick tiles can mimic the look of real tiles without permanent damage.

  • Tapware upgrades – Swap outdated taps for modern designs (just keep the originals to reinstall before you move out!).

  • Contact paper magic – Use high-quality adhesive contact paper to refresh benchtops, cabinets, and even appliances.

Not sure where to start? A plumber or handyman from ServiceSeeking.com.au can help with small but impactful kitchen and bathroom upgrades.

7. Window Treatments

Swapping out old blinds or adding stylish curtains can instantly elevate a rental home’s look. Many landlords won’t mind if you install new window treatments—especially if they improve the home’s value.

For a sleek, professional finish, a window specialist can install curtain rods, roller blinds, or shutters that suit your style.

8. Outdoor Upgrades

If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony or backyard, you can make it feel like an extension of your home with rental-friendly updates:

  • Deck tiles – Interlocking outdoor tiles can hide dated concrete or pavers.

  • Potted plants – Add greenery with movable planter boxes or vertical gardens.

  • Portable fire pits and outdoor lights – Create a cosy atmosphere without permanent changes.

For a bigger backyard transformation, hiring a landscaper can help bring your outdoor vision to life—without breaking rental rules.

9. Smart Home Upgrades

Want to modernise your rental? Smart home devices like plug-in LED strip lights, Bluetooth locks, and battery-operated security cameras let you upgrade your home without hardwiring anything.

If you need help setting up smart home tech without breaching your lease, an electrician or a home security expert can ensure everything is installed safely and correctly.

Renting Doesn’t Mean Settling

Your rental should feel like home, and with a few smart, landlord-friendly tweaks, you can create a space that’s stylish, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

Need a hand with installation or custom modifications? Find skilled tradies on ServiceSeeking.com.au to help bring your rental-friendly makeover to life!