Here’s a little-known fact about me: for the past seven years, I’ve been a landlord. So while I spend most of my time inspiring women to take on DIY projects in their own homes, I also have a unique perspective from the other side of the lease. And I’m here to tell you—yes, there are renter friendly DIY upgrades you can make, without risking your security deposit (or your landlord’s goodwill).
Below are some of the most impactful and reversible renter-friendly upgrades—plus exactly what to do before you move out, so you stay in the clear.
1. Swap Out Cabinet Hardware
Changing cabinet knobs and pulls is one of the fastest ways to elevate a kitchen or bathroom. After all, cabinet hardware is the jewelry of the space, and something you use every day! Plus, think of this as an investment: you can take this with you when you move or buy your own place.
What to Do:
- Save the original hardware in a labeled bag.
- Reinstall it before move-out—super easy with a screwdriver.
- Use existing holes to avoid damage.
Pro Tip: Choose knobs or pulls in trending finishes like matte black or unlacquered brass.
Last year I updated my drawer pulls in the kitchen and it was an instant elevated upgrade!
Related: My Budget Friendly Kitchen Renovation – Installing Soft Close Drawer Slides
2. Upgrade Door Hardware
Swapping a dated doorknob for something more elevated can give your space a more curated feel. As long as your new door hardware is the same size, this is a relatively easy DIY you can do on your own without the need of a handyman. Trust me, I was intimidated by this for years and after I tried, I laughed at myself for being so scared! I’m excited to update all of my doorknobs in my own house.
What to Do:
- Keep the original hardware and screws.
- Make sure the replacement fits the same bore hole size.
3. Paint—With Permission
Some landlords are more flexible than others when it comes to paint. The key is to ask first and plan to share the color you want to use with your landlord. Keep in mind you’ll need to return it to the original color upon move out, or pay for the cost of having that room(s) repainted by a professional.
What to Do:
- Get written approval for any color changes.
- Save the original paint color (or color match it) so you can repaint before moving out.
- Stick to lighter hues if you want to minimize the repainting effort later.
Related:
- How To Paint A Wall
- How To Paint A Ceiling
- My Favorite Painting Supplies
- How To Get Crisp Paint Lines (every time!)
- Choosing The Right Paint Sheen
- How To Paint Trim
4. Swap the Light Fixtures
A dramatic pendant or sconce can completely transform a space—even in a rental. Plus this is another item you can take with you when you move out someday.
Never underestimate the power of a unique light fixture!
What to Do:
- Store the original fixture safely in a labeled box.
- Hire an electrician to make the swap, and make sure they’re licensed and insured (you don’t want to be responsible for a house fire)
- Swap it back before you leave, or offer the upgrade to your landlord—they may love it enough to let it stay!
Related: Using Light Fixtures As Artwork
5. Peel & Stick Wallpaper
There are tons of removable wallpaper options that are actually removable—no glue, no damage. Additionally, depending on your relationship with your landlord, and his/her personal taste, you might even get approval for real wallpaper. If someone had asked me to do this in my rental I definitely would have considered it, pending we could have agreed on the paper.
Shop: Back Entry Wallpaper | Powder Room Wallpaper | Dining Room Wallpaper
What to Do:
- Choose high-quality brands that are known for clean removal.
- Apply to smooth, primed walls (textured walls can reduce adhesion and removability).
- Remove slowly at a 45-degree angle to avoid damage.
Related: How to Prepare Walls for Wallpaper
6. Try FloorPops or Removable Tile
If your rental has a tiled area or concrete flooring, this could be a fun and easy upgrade. Peel-and-stick floor tiles or vinyl sheets can make a big impact. I actually installed these black and white checkered floor pops in my laundry room at my current house and I love them. They’re not meant to be permanent but they’re holding me over while I wait to redo the laundry room.
Shop: Black & White Checkered Floor Pops
What to Do:
- Avoid installing over carpet or hardwood flooring.
- Test one tile first to ensure clean removal before covering an entire area.
- Remove slowly and clean up any residue when moving out.
7. Hang Curtains with No-Drill Brackets
Curtains instantly make a room feel cozy and finished. Use no-drill curtain rod brackets or tension rods to skip the wall damage. Or if you want to hang curtain rods in the drywall, just be prepared to either leave the curtain rods behind or repair the drywall upon move out. Either way, draperies have a way of completely changing a space!
Swapping out my venetian blinds for proper window treatments completely changed my rooms. Shop: Dining Room Drapes | Velvet Rust Bedroom Drapes | Rolli Motorized Shades | Brass Curtain Rod | Brass Curtain Rod Rings
What to Do:
- If using screws or anchors, patch and paint holes upon move-out.
- Save all hardware for reinstalling or reusing in your next place.
Related:
8. The Easiest DIY Renter Friendly Upgrades: Add Flowers & Container Plants
One of the easiest ways to boost curb appeal? Flowers! Even in rentals, potted plants on patios, balconies, or front steps go a long way.
Flowers like Black Eyed Susans are easy to care for and come back annually
What to Do:
- Stick with movable planters or container gardens.
- Avoid planting anything permanent in the ground unless explicitly allowed.
9. Use Command Hooks & Picture Rails for Art
Rather than drilling into walls, try Command Strips, picture rails, or leaning art on shelves or furniture.
What to Do:
- Clean the wall surface before applying.
- Remove strips slowly and follow product instructions to prevent peeling paint.
I use Command Strips in my house especially when I’m not 100% sure on artwork placement. This little painting is being held up with a Command Hook!
10. Create “Built-In” Looks with Bookcases
Flank a window with two tall bookcases or place bookshelves around a bed to mimic built-ins—no drilling required.
Bonus Tip: Use wallpaper or fabric as a backdrop for even more visual interest.
These are NOT Renter Friendly DIY Upgrades
Even if it feels tempting, steer clear of these common renter DIY mistakes:
- Don’t remove or replace permanent fixtures without permission. That built-in vanity might not be your style, but it’s part of the lease.
- Avoid structural changes. That includes removing walls, widening doors, or adding built-ins.
- Skip the tilework. Even peel-and-stick tiles need to be chosen carefully—check if the adhesive is safe for your floor type.
Final Thoughts About Renter Friendly DIY Upgrades: Always Ask First
Even if a project feels harmless, always check in with your landlord or property manager before making changes. A quick email with your proposed plan can save you major headaches later—and most landlords appreciate tenants who care enough to improve the space. Also remember there may be some PTSD from the tenants before you, so if you get a “no”, don’t take it personal. Chances are, it’s not.
With the right approach (and a little creativity), you don’t have to wait until you own a home to love where you live.
