What is allowed in a rental property?

Better safe than sorry

We want to be able to move freely within our own four walls, decorate our home to our liking, receive visitors or listen to music. It is important to bear in mind what is allowed and what is not. The tenancy agreement includes rules to prevent damage to the rented property and house rules to ensure that everyone can live together in harmony. Many of these regulations are enshrined in law, but some are also imposed directly by the homeowner. 

Be honest, do you know the rules about what you can and cannot do in your rental property and in the communal areas? Depending on the situation, violating these rules can be quite expensive. Therefore, if you are unsure, take a look at your tenancy agreement or ask us or your property manager, because it’s better to know in advance!

Here we answer the most common questions on the subject.

Can I furnish my property exactly as I wish?

Yes, you can furnish the apartment to your liking, hang up pictures, mount shelves, etc. – taking into account the requirement that everything must be put back in its original state when you move out. This takes us to the next question…

Can I drill dowel holes and paint walls in colour? 

Yes, this is allowed to the normal extent. The holes must, however, be filled in again properly when you move out. If a tradesman is required, you are to bear the costs. The same applies to walls painted in colour. 

Can I keep pets?

Many contracts stipulate that keeping pets requires permission from the landlord. Small animals such as hamsters are allowed without consent, provided they are kept in normal numbers and appropriately. 

Can I install a cat ladder?

The facade of the building does not belong to the rented apartment; therefore, permission from the landlord must be obtained for a possible exception. 

Can I play an instrument in the property?

Outside of the designated quiet times, this is generally allowed, except for very loud instruments such as drums; they can only be played with soundproofing. Ask us or your property manager if there are any special restrictions for your property. 

Can I have parties in my property?

As long as the frequency of the parties is kept within limits, having parties in rental properties is allowed. For this, it is important to observe the designated quiet time, which applies from 10 p.m. onwards in most house rules. If this is not possible in exceptional cases, ask the neighbours for their consent in advance. 

Can I have a barbecue on the balcony?

Yes, you can. Barbecues may not be forbidden by the landlord. However, the use of charcoal may be prohibited. In general, excessive odours or smoke should be avoided for the sake of neighbours.

Am I allowed to smoke in my property?

Smoking in self-rented rooms may not be banned. If you smoke in the property, you will have to pay for painting the walls to cover nicotine stains, should that be necessary. The rules for smoking on the balcony are the same as those for barbecues: it is allowed, but consideration should be given to the neighbours. In the stairwell, lift or other common areas, smoking is forbidden in most buildings. 

Can I take a shower at night?

Yes, you are allowed to take a quick shower if you get home late. However, taking a bath, for which the water has to run in and drain out for much longer, would not be allowed during designated quiet times. 

Am I allowed to dry clothes in the property?

There is usually no rule for this. However, it is important to air properly to prevent mould forming. Most properties have drying rooms that should be used for drying clothes.

Can I sunbathe ‘topless’?

If you want to sunbathe on the balcony or terrace, you should be clothed. Neighbours may otherwise perceive this as indecent behaviour and initiate criminal proceedings. 

Can I copy a key?

If you need another key, please contact us or your property manager. The landlord needs to know how many keys are in circulation. As a rule, you need written consent to have a key copied. 

Can I put a shoe rack in front of the door?

No, you may only furnish the rented rooms. The stairwell must also be kept free for fire reasons. 

Can I sublet my property?

In principle, sub-tenancy is allowed, but the landlord must be informed. In some cases, there are also special provisions in the tenancy agreement. 

Can I teach yoga in my home?

Residential premises may not in principle be used for commercial purposes. If you would like to use your property for business purposes, please contact us or your property manager. The landlord may prohibit commercial use or stipulate regulations, e.g. opening hours.

Further important questions and answers about renting are provided in our FAQ.