US renter rules: what to check before changing a rental.

Scope: This is general information, not legal advice. Tenant-landlord law differs by state, county and city, and additional rules may apply to particular types of housing. For a starting point, use USAGov's tenant-rights resource and the housing agency or attorney general for your state.

Read the lease before drilling, painting or swapping fixtures

Look for clauses about alterations, nails and screws, paint, wallpaper, adhesives, window coverings, lighting, smart locks, cameras, furniture anchors and restoring the unit at move-out. A lease may require written permission even for a small-looking change. If the terms are vague, ask the landlord or manager in writing before starting.

Ask for written approval when a change is permanent or uncertain

Describe the product, its location, how it attaches, how it will be removed, and whether holes or residue may remain. Ask who is responsible for restoring the surface. Keep the response with your lease records. If consent must come from the landlord or property owner, do not assume an informal comment from another person satisfies the agreement.

Security deposits depend on the state and sometimes the city

Deposit caps, deadlines, allowable deductions, required itemisation and interest rules vary. Never rely on another state's deadline as a rule for your rental. Use the state attorney general, housing department, legal-aid organisation or official statutes. USAGov's tenant-rights page points renters toward state resources. The CFPB renter resource page is another place to begin looking for support.

Document move-in condition and each project

1. Take dated, clear photos of walls, flooring, counters, cabinet interiors, bathroom sealant, windows, doors and existing marks when you move in.
2. Return the condition report within the timeframe required by the lease or local law and keep a copy.
3. Before installation, photograph the exact surface and save the product label, instructions and written permission.
4. After removal, photograph the result in good light and keep receipts for any repair or cleaning.

Normal wear versus damage

Legal standards vary. In many landlord-tenant discussions, ordinary deterioration from normal use is distinguished from damage caused by misuse, neglect or unauthorised alterations; however, the applicable legal test and evidence depend on local law and the lease. If you disagree with a deduction, request an itemised explanation and supporting records, then seek local advice.

Smart devices and safety equipment need extra care

Do not replace locks, install cameras in shared spaces, disable smoke or carbon-monoxide alarms, block sprinkler heads or alter fixed wiring without checking the agreement and applicable law. Privacy, fire-safety and building rules may also apply. Report broken safety equipment to the landlord or appropriate authority instead of making an unauthorised permanent modification.

Pre-project decision checklist

• Does my lease explicitly allow this change?
• Could it leave holes, residue, paint lift, permanent marks or a safety issue?
• Have I requested written approval where needed?
• Have I saved the current official state or local guidance?
• Do I have dated photos, instructions and a move-out plan?

Where to get local help

Start with USAGov: Tenant rights. For a dispute, check your state attorney general, local housing department, legal aid or a licensed attorney. If you receive court papers or an eviction notice, note the deadline immediately and seek local assistance.

Last reviewed: 25 October 2026. Confirm the current rule for your state and municipality.