Renting an apartment is an excellent option for many people, but the one drawback is that you don’t always get to choose what fixtures are included. Many landlords will provide things like light fixtures and carpets but won’t hesitate to charge extra for specific features or amenities. However, here are some basic items that you should request from your landlord before signing a lease that can make everyday living much more manageable.
Light and Ceiling Fixtures
It may seem obvious, but having the right lighting in your home is essential for both comfort and safety. If your landlord hasn’t installed any lights in your apartment yet, be sure to ask them to do so before you move in.
And if they don’t include ceiling fans as part of the fixture package, it may be worth asking them if they would add one, which can help keep energy costs down during the hot summer months. For starters, a ceiling fan can help circulate cool air and make the space cooler, making a living easier without relying on the A/C.
In addition, having light fixtures that are modern, with adjustable dimmers and/or recessed lighting, can be an excellent touch to any room. Not only will it bring a calming ambiance to your home, but it also adds value if you plan on living in your apartment for some time.
Cabinets and Shelving
Having enough storage space is critical when it comes to life in an apartment. Whether it’s a kitchen pantry or a closet for all your clothes and shoes, having ample shelving and cabinets can make life much easier.
Ask your landlord if they could install extra shelves or cupboards if there isn’t already adequate storage space in the unit you’re looking at. While they might not want to invest in custom cabinetry, they may be willing to provide additional wire shelving — which is better than nothing!
For instance, having a few extra shelves in the kitchen pantry can help you store all your dry goods, spices, and canned items while having some extra storage space in the bedroom closet will make it much easier to organize your clothes.
Window Treatments
Nobody wants their neighbors peeping into their windows! Request window treatments from your landlord so that you have some privacy when needed.
This could mean blinds, curtains, or shades — whatever works best for your particular rental unit — just make sure you ask about them before signing a lease agreement. Also, if your apartment has sliding glass doors that lead to a balcony or patio, make sure you get the correct type of window treatments for those too.
Having the right window treatments installed in your home is critical for keeping out the sun’s glare and providing you with privacy when needed.
Waste Bin
Having roll-off bins in your apartment can come in handy and will give you one less thing to worry about. This makes it much easier to take out the trash without having to haul bulky garbage bags out of the house every week.
Your landlord may not include this as part of your rental agreement, but it’s worth asking if they can provide one. In addition, if you have any bulky items or furniture that need to be disposed of, a roll-off bin can make the job much easier.
You can also request a smaller bin for your kitchen if you don’t have one already — it will help you keep the space tidy and reduce odors from food waste.
Wall Hooks & Hangers
It’s always helpful to have wall hooks throughout the apartment — especially in places like closets and entryways where coats, hats, bags, and other items can quickly accumulate clutter.
Ask your landlord if they’d be willing to install wall hooks or hangers on their dime; otherwise, you’ll have to buy them yourself upon move-in day! Having these hooks in your home can make it much easier to organize everyday items and keep the space looking neat.
Moreover, wall hooks are also an excellent way to hang up artwork or family photos in the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms — which is a great touch that can help make the space feel more like home.
These are just five of the most important items that every renter should inquire about before signing a lease agreement with their landlord. Having these fixtures makes daily living much more comfortable and convenient — so don’t forget to ask about them! Ultimately though, no matter what kind of rental property you end up with (or how many fixtures are included), remember that making it “home” ultimately depends on how much love and care you put into the space itself. Enjoy making memories!
