As the Renters Reform Bill begins to reshape the private rental sector, new research from OSB Group suggests a shift in the relationship between landlords and tenants, with increasing acceptance of tenant personalisation in rental properties.

A survey conducted in partnership with Innovation Bubble found that UK tenants view their living space as an extension of their identity, with restrictions on personalisation potentially influencing their decision to move. In response, landlords are adapting, with 73% now open to tenants customising their homes.

CHANGING ATTITUDES TO TENANT PERSONALISATION

While more landlords are allowing tenants to decorate, many are implementing measures to balance personalisation with property maintenance. The research found that 48% of landlords ask tenants to cover decoration costs, while the same proportion require tenants to pay for any resulting damage.

A further 34% said they work with tenants to approve decoration plans, and 20% collaborate on selecting tradespeople for any work carried out.

Jon Hall, group managing director mortgages and savings at OSB Group, said landlords are adapting to changing tenant expectations.

He added: “The trend towards allowing tenants more freedom in decorating their homes represents a positive development for the private rented sector.

“It demonstrates landlords’ adaptability to evolving tenant expectations and promotes longer-term, more stable tenancies.”

For tenants, the ability to personalise a rental property can be a key factor in feeling settled. Claudia Kennedy, a long-term renter, highlighted the impact of decorating with her landlord’s support.

She said: “I’ve painted my lounge and garden fences, mounted artwork, and updated my kitchen aesthetic with removable tiles. It has made the space feel like home and extended my stay.”

IMPACT OF THE RENTERS REFORM BILL

The survey also examined landlord sentiment towards the Renters Reform Bill, revealing mixed reactions to the upcoming changes. While some landlords view the reforms as an opportunity to improve regulatory compliance and encourage fair rental pricing, others express concerns about potential market disruptions.

Among those surveyed, 14% believe the legislation could prompt landlords to exit the market, while 13% expect it to support compliance. A further 13% see it as a step towards fairer rental pricing, but the same proportion raised concerns about complications in the eviction process. Additionally, 11% worry that the bill may reduce the availability of private rental properties.

Hall said the findings highlight the need for landlords and tenants to build strong relationships: “As the rental market continues to evolve, these findings highlight the importance of fostering positive tenant-landlord relationships built on trust, communication and adaptability.

“Empowering tenants to create spaces that feel like home is emerging as a key strategy for maintaining successful and harmonious tenancies.”

The research suggests that as rental sector reforms take shape, landlords who embrace tenant autonomy while maintaining clear agreements on property maintenance may benefit from longer and more stable tenancies.