Alterations And Improvements
Thinking about making changes to your home? Find out which alterations and improvements need permission and how to submit a request.
Making Your Home Your Own
Making your home feel like your own is important.
We understand that, over time, you may want to decorate, improve or make changes to your home. Some alterations are allowed without permission, while others need approval before any work starts.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to ask first.
What Tenants Need To Know
What Changes Need Permission?
Some alterations can affect the building, future maintenance responsibilities or the safety of your home.
You should contact us before carrying out changes such as:
- Installing a new kitchen or bathroom.
- Removing or building walls.
- Replacing door or windows.
- Electrical or plumbing alterations.
- Structural works.
- Building extensions, sheds or outbuildings.
- Changes to external areas of the property.
Permission must be granted before any work happens.
What Changes Can I Make Without Permission?
In many cases, small decorative changes won’t require approval. Example include:
- Painting walls.
- Hanging pictures and mirrors.
- Changing curtains or blinds.
- Furnishing your home.
If you’re unsure whether permission is needed, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to advise.
Why Do I Need Permission?
Permission isn’t about stopping you from improving your home, it’s there to make sure any work:
- Is completed early.
- Doesn’t affect neighbouring properties.
- Doesn’t create maintenance issues in the future.
- Meets legal and building requirements.
- Doesn’t impact insurance or building warranties.
We’ll always explain our decision and any conditions that may apply.
Before You Start
Before submitting a request, it can be helpful to gather:
- Details of the work you’d like to carry out.
- Plans or photographs (where relvant)
- Information about the contractor carrying out the work.
- Any supporting documents requested.
The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for us to review your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our frequently asked questions provide you with answers to some of the most common questions around residential tenancy.
Do I need permission to decorate my home?
Usually no. Simple decorating such as painting walls or changing furnishings cna normally be carried out without permission.
How long does it take for a request to be reviewed?
Timescale vary depending on the type of work being requested, but we’ll keep you updated throughout the process.
Can I start work while waiting for permission?
No. Please wait until permission has been granted before carrying out any work.
What happens if I make changes without permission?
You may be askedto remove or reverse any unauthorised alterations, particularly if they affect safety, compliance or future maintenance responsibilities.
Why was my request refused?
Every request is considered individually. Sometimes works cannot be approved because of safety concerns, legal requirements or building restrictions.
Need Permission?
Thinking about making changes to your home? Complete our alterations and improvements form and a member of the team will review your request.