What rights do tenants have in regards to making alterations to their rental units?
In Missouri, tenants have the right to make certain alterations to their rental units, subject to the consent of the landlord. All alterations made must be in compliance with the terms of the lease agreement and any applicable laws or regulations. At the start of the tenancy, the landlord and tenant will each have different expectations regarding alterations. The landlord may place restrictions on what alterations may be made and may require written permission before doing so. On the other hand, tenants may have already made certain alterations or improvements before the tenancy and the landlord must recognize those alterations as valid. In general, tenants have the right to make non-structural alterations that do not alter the basic nature of the rental unit. Examples of these types of alterations include painting, installing wallpaper or floor coverings, hanging window treatments, and making minor repairs, such as replacing a door knob. The landlord may require that the tenant return the rental unit to its original condition, or, if the tenant chooses to keep the alteration in place, the landlord may require the tenant to pay for the cost of restoring the property to its original condition after the tenancy ends. If the tenant wishes to make a significant alteration to the property, such as erecting a fence or substantially altering the kitchen or bathroom, the tenant should ask the landlord for written permission and detailed instructions regarding the alteration. The tenant must follow the landlord’s instructions, as failure to do so may result in eviction proceedings if the landlord does not agree to the alterations.
Related FAQs
What are the laws governing the inspection of rental units?What are my rights and responsibilities as a landlord?
What are the legal consequences of a landlord failing to make repairs or provide a habitable living environment?
What should a tenant do if they are in dispute with a landlord?
What is the typical process for evicting a tenant?
How can I legally break a lease?
Are there any laws governing the use of tenants' security deposits?
Are there any laws governing the use of a third-party guarantor?
What is the average length of a lease?
How can a tenant legally challenge a rent increase?
Related Blog Posts
Understanding How Landlord and Tenant Law Works - July 31, 2023Tips for Landlords: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities Under Landlord and Tenant Law - August 7, 2023
The Key Components of a Landlord and Tenant Agreement - August 14, 2023
What is a Landlord’s Obligation to their Tenants? - August 21, 2023
The Basics of Evictions and How Landlord and Tenant Law Offers Protection - August 28, 2023