Should I ask my landlord if I can install a fence around my apartment?
Question:There are 2 entrances to my apt. The side door has a good sized yard that I'd like to keep my dogs in during the day. I've lived here for almost 2 years (lease expired 1 yr ago). I'd also like to replace the carpet.
Is this something I should ask about? Or is it a waste of time?
Answers:
You need to ask and perhaps show some sort of proof that it will be done professionally. Do not expect to be compensated and should you move, you can't remove the fencing or carpet. Improvements made to a rental become part of the rental.
Personally I do as little as I can for a stupid landlord.
Go ask,what would it hurt?
You can ask, but don't expect to be re-paid for the fence.
If your lease expired and you are living there without any form of written contract, to put it bluntly, your landlord is not very intelligent.
If you did have a contract, this question would be easy to answer - the answer would be in a clause in the contract that usually says you can do something like this, with permission, and with all benefits (after you leave) of the upgrade going to the landlord and next tenant(s).
In this situation, as you don't have a contract, I would ask & make sure that you get permission in writing.
Ask about both, as with the fence, there may be some city regulation about "outside" improvements. If he says yes, it still likely that one would be at your own expense. You might be able to wheedle a carpet out of him, especially since you have been a good tenant for the past two years. Was there a reason for not renewing your lease?
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