Decorating a rental property can be tricky. While you want the space to reflect your unique personality and taste, you also want to get the security deposit back at the end of the lease. Use the following guide for damage-free ways to make a rental house or apartment feel like home.

A Renter’s Guide to Damage-Free Walls

1. Adhesive Strips & Hooks

If nails, screws, and pushpins are out of the question for your rental property, consider using damage-free, ready-to-hang adhesive strips and hooks. These are widely available in most retail and home improvement stores.

The adhesive-backed tapes and hooks come in a variety of sizes and weight specifications to accommodate large and small decorations. Not only are they ideal for hanging everyday items, such as mirrors, artwork, and framed photographs, but they can also be used for holiday decorations.

2. Display Art on Surfaces

Using paintings and photography in your home decor is a great way to showcase your talent and personality or add a focal point to a room. Consider alternative methods for displaying pieces if you can't hang them on walls without risking damage. 

Try placing artwork on a bookshelf, mantlepiece, or desk. Smaller pieces can be tucked behind decorative items like candle holders to add depth and interest to hutches and shelving. Instead of hammering multiple nails in a wall to support a heavy mirror, place it on the surface of a dresser and lean it against the wall. Stick protective pads to the edge of the mirror to keep it from damaging wall paint.

3. Use Fabric & Drapes for Color

While permanent items like wallpaper and paint are typically not permitted in rental properties, you can incorporate favorite colors by using fabric or drapes. Adhesive hangers can be used to drape fabrics throughout the space, creating focal points behind couches and beds.

Stylish curtains in bright colors or prints can help tie a room together while using the rental’s existing hardware. You can also use tension rods if there aren’t curtain rods installed above the windows.

If you're looking for a new rental property, contact All Pro Flathead Property Management in Kalispell, MT. Since 1981, their knowledgable staff has provided a variety of rental services for both commercial and residential properties. Call (406) 755-1102 to start looking for your new home, or visit them online to view their available properties.