With the Renters’ Reform Bill set to redefine the private rental sector, new research from OSB Group highlights a shift in landlord-tenant dynamics, reflecting a growing recognition of renters’ desire for autonomy.
The rental landscape in the UK is undergoing a transformation as landlords increasingly grant tenants more freedom to personalise their homes.
And a new study conducted in partnership with Innovation Bubble highlights the psychological connection tenants have with their living spaces.
According to the research, renters view their homes as an extension of their identity, and restrictions on personalisation can prompt them to seek alternative accommodation.
MODIFY LIVING SPACES
In response, landlords are adapting, with seven out of 10 (73%) now open to allowing tenants to modify their living spaces to better reflect their personal tastes.
Despite this shift toward greater flexibility, financial responsibilities remain a key consideration.
The OSB Group’s Landlord Leaders survey found that just under half (48%) of landlords require tenants to cover the costs of decorating, while an equal proportion expect renters to pay for any resulting damage. And around a third (34%) of landlords work with tenants to approve decoration plans and a fifth (20%) oversee the selection of tradespeople to ensure property standards are maintained.
FREEDOM
Jon Hall, Group Managing Director of Mortgages and Savings at OSB Group, views this trend as a positive development for the rental market.
He says: “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, this flexibility can have a profound impact.
Claudia Kennedy, a long-term renter, details how personalisation has enhanced her living experience.
She says: “I’ve painted my lounge and garden fences, mounted artwork, and updated my kitchen aesthetic with removable tiles – all with my landlord’s support. It has made the space feel like home and extended my stay.”
MIXED REACTIONS
Alongside this growing flexibility, the Renters’ Reform Bill continues to generate mixed reactions among landlords.
The survey revealed that 14% fear the bill could lead to landlords exiting the market, while 13% believe it will aid in regulatory compliance.
Another 13% expect the legislation to encourage fair rental pricing, while an equal percentage express concerns over potential complications in the eviction process. Meanwhile, 11% worry about a decrease in the availability of private rental properties.
As the rental market continues to evolve, the findings suggest that fostering strong, trust-based relationships between landlords and tenants will be crucial.
Hall adds: “Empowering tenants to create spaces that feel like home is emerging as a key strategy for maintaining successful and harmonious tenancies.”
