Renovating as a Renter in Australia
Many people who rent their homes in Australia want to personalize their living spaces and make upgrades. However, doing major renovations is usually not allowed for renters. Most landlords want their properties kept in the original condition. But there are still plenty of simple renovation ideas that renters can do to improve their homes without making permanent changes that could violate their leases.
- Painting Walls in
Neutral Colors
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to give a room a whole new look is to apply a fresh coat of paint to the walls. However, renters should only paint with neutral tones like beige, gray or white that can be easily covered up when moving out. Bright or dark colors may need to be repainted by the landlord. It's also important to properly prepare surfaces and use painter's tape to avoid getting paint on trim, ceilings or floors.
- Installing Removable
Wallpaper
Wallpaper provides another option for temporarily updating walls without paint. Removable wallpaper is made with an adhesive backing that can be pulled off cleanly when moving out without damaging walls. It comes in thousands of patterns, textures and colors to match any decorating style. Just be sure to smooth it evenly during installation to avoid bubbles or wrinkles.
- Changing Light Fixtures
Rental properties often have basic or outdated light fixtures that can make spaces feel dull or cold. Replacing old overhead lights, lamps or ceiling fans with new, stylish fixtures is an easy renovation. Just be sure to retain the old fixtures to reinstall them before moving out. Adding new curtain rods, drapes or blinds also lets in more natural light.
- Installing New Closet
Systems
Many rentals lack sufficient closet space or organization systems. Adding modular closet units provides much-needed storage and makes closets more functional. Many temporary closet systems can be uninstalled and reused in a future home. Renters can also add shelving units around the home for extra storage.
- Updating Kitchen and
Bathroom Hardware
Kitchens and bathrooms are areas where a few small changes can have a big impact. Switching out old cabinet knobs and handles for new modern hardware instantly refreshes the look. Updating old faucets or shower heads to new models with better flow can also improve functionality in the kitchen and bath.
- Adding Accent Walls
with Removable Products

For a bigger renovation on one main wall, renters can use removable wood planks or stone products made for temporary installations. These materials can create an eye-catching accent wall and can be uninstalled before moving without damaging the wall. Other options include applying removable wainscoting, board and batten, or even 3D geometric wall panels.
- Laying Down New
Flooring
Old, worn or stained flooring is a common issue in many rentals. But installing new permanent flooring usually isn't possible for renters. As an alternative, there are click-together vinyl plank floors or peel-and-stick tile products that can cover existing floors. These temporary floors float on top so they can easily be removed later without any damage.
- Revamping Kitchen
Counters

Those stuck with old, outdated kitchen countertops can purchase affordable renewals made from adhesive vinyl or rubberized coverings. They just need to be carefully measured, cut and installed smoothly over existing counters. They provide the look of new granite or stone surfaces until permanent renovations are possible someday.
With some creativity and the right temporary materials, renters have many options for renovating their living spaces to suit their style and needs. The key is choosing products specifically designed to avoid any permanent changes that could violate the terms of a lease agreement. With some basic DIY skills, almost any area of a rental home can get a fresh, updated look.
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