Most renters want to live in a decent place. While it doesn't always need to look high-end and fancy, nobody wants to live somewhere disgusting or run-down. The Kitchen is the heart of any home, so it should be an inviting place to cook, eat and entertain in. At the very least it should be functional.

But not all renters are particularly fond of the kitchen they have. Many ask themselves "Can I ask my Landlord to redo my kitchen?" The short answer to this question is yes. But there's more to it than that.

It doesn't hurt to ask

You can always ask, but that doesn't mean it will happen. That being said, be careful if you decide to ask. You don't want to annoy your landlord, so be professional and have your arguments laid out ahead of time so you come prepared.

Review your lease

Before you take the chance and talk to your landlord about redoing the kitchen, you need to review your lease. It may already include language about renovations that you've already signed and agreed to. Make sure you check before bringing it up with your property manager.

Know the cost

Renovations can cost a lot of money, especially kitchen renovations. It's expensive to replace appliances, cabinets, counter tops and floors. If you want quality products, it will cost even more. Someone has to pay for all of it and your landlord may not be so willing to foot the bill.

However, if they're able to increase rent for tenants, they may be more willing. If you're alright with paying a higher rent, this may be a good way to sell your landlord on the idea.

Be prepared

Renovations take time. It could take a week or two months, during which time you probably won't have a fully functioning kitchen. Furthermore, it may be loud and dusty during the renovation process. Before you ask for a renovation, think about what that means for you on a day-to-day basis.

If you ask for a renovation, your landlord may expect you to do some of the work. Paying for labor can be pricey, so you might have to do some work to cut down on costs. If you're handy and you're willing to pitch in, this might be another selling point you can use.

Manage your expectations

While there may be exceptions, most landlords aren't renting out a house or apartment out of the goodness of their heart. They do it to make money and more is always better. If a renovation doesn't fatten their wallet in the end, it's unlikely they'll agree to it.

Remember that you signed a lease for your apartment as is. If you signed after seeing the kitchen, you're stuck with it. If you signed the lease without seeing the kitchen, you're still stuck with it. Either way, if your landlord doesn't agree to a renovation and you signed a contract, you shouldn't expect it.

But again, it doesn't hurt to ask!

Photo by Aaron Huber on Unsplash

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