Handyman Work in a Rented Home: Asking Permission

What tenants in the UK can usually do themselves, what needs landlord consent, how to ask in writing and how to avoid deposit deductions after small repairs.

Renting a home does not mean living with a wobbly door or a bare wall. But it does mean the property belongs to someone else, and that changes what you can do, who pays and what happens to your deposit. A little communication up front prevents most problems. This is general guidance, not legal advice, so check your tenancy agreement and official guidance.

Start with the tenancy agreement

Read the clause on repairs and alterations. Most agreements say something like:

The tenant must not make alterations without written consent
The tenant must keep the property clean and in good order
The tenant must report defects promptly
The tenant is responsible for damage caused by them or their visitors

Some agreements allow hanging pictures with removable hooks but not drilling. Others forbid any fixings. If the wording is vague, ask.

Repairs: report, do not repair

If something is broken that the landlord is generally responsible for, such as a leak, boiler fault, broken window or failed electrics, report it in writing and let the landlord arrange the repair. Hiring your own handyman for those can leave you out of pocket and may breach the agreement. See landlord repair responsibilities in the UK.

Improvements and small jobs

For things you want rather than things that are broken, such as shelves, curtain poles, a TV fixing or a new door handle, ask permission first. Typical outcomes:

Allowed as is. Many landlords are happy with reasonable fixing of shelves or curtain poles, especially if you will make good when you leave.
Allowed with conditions. For example, using a specific tradesperson, using neutral finishes or reinstating on departure.
Not allowed. Particularly for listed buildings, leasehold flats with restrictions or furnished lets with inventory items.

How to ask in writing

A short email or message works:

Hi [name], I would like to put up two shelves in the living room and a curtain pole in the bedroom. They would be fixed to the walls with standard plugs, and I will fill and paint the holes when I leave. May I have your consent to go ahead? Happy to send photos of the position.

Keep the reply. If the landlord says yes verbally, ask them to confirm by message.

Using a handyman as a tenant

If you use a handyman, tell them the home is rented and what permission you have. Good practice includes:

Ask for a clear, written scope of what will be done.
Share any restrictions, such as no drilling into tiles or no changes to the front door.
Ask the handyman to protect surfaces and tidy up.
Take photos before and after.
Ask for receipts if the landlord might reimburse you.

See questions to ask before hiring a handyman for what to cover.

Deposits and fair wear and tear

At the end of the tenancy, the landlord may make deductions for damage but not for fair wear and tear. Poorly filled holes, unauthorised changes or leftover fixings can lead to deductions. Reduce the risk by:

Using removable fixings where possible
Filling and touching up holes when you leave
Keeping permission emails and photos
Taking dated photos at move-in and move-out
Discussing any alterations before you leave

For technique, see how to patch a hole in plasterboard.

Removing or altering fixtures and fittings
Changing locks without the landlord's agreement. See how to replace a door lock cylinder.
Painting walls in a different colour, where the agreement bans it
Altering gas, electric or water installations
Installing satellite dishes or external fittings
Fixing anything to a leasehold building's shared parts

If the landlord says no

You can ask whether an alternative is possible, such as freestanding shelving, command-style adhesive hooks, a tension rod or a leaning mirror. Often a compromise exists that protects both sides.

Finding someone through Compito

On Compito, you can search by postcode, send a request that mentions you are in a rented home, compare ID-verified local providers, message them about the details and pay online when you accept. Reviews follow completed bookings.

Frequently asked questions

Can my landlord refuse to let me hang pictures?

They can restrict drilling under the agreement, but outright refusal of reasonable, reversible fixings may not be sensible. Ask and agree an approach.

Who pays if I arrange a repair that was the landlord's job?

It depends. Without prior agreement, the landlord may refuse to reimburse. Report first and agree in writing before spending money.

Can the landlord keep my deposit for nail holes?

Small nail holes are often treated as fair wear and tear, but larger or numerous holes may attract deductions. Filling them properly helps.

Find handyman providers near you

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