NYC Can I Paint My Apartment?

My apartment is really dark. Am I allowed to paint?

Generally, leases state that a renter is not allowed to make changes to the decoration (paint color, tiling, cabinets, etc.). However, many landlords don’t paint between tenants which can mean that walls become dark and dingy after a few years. The best policy is simply to ask your landlord, in writing, if you can have written permission to paint. Most will be happy to accommodate, provided that you repaint in light, neutral colors. Magnolia is the most popular choice for landlords, but for brightness, consider using a cream with pale yellow, green, or pink tint. If you want a more cozy feel, consider cream with beige or grey tints. Don’t paint in dark colors. Repainting black or dark colors (blood red, chocolate, forest green, purple, etc) can be expensive as it has to be specially primed and may require many coats of new paint to bring it back to a neutral color.

Some management companies have painters on staff. They will generally allow you to use their painters for a set fee. This will insure that you get a good job that meets your needs and satisfies your landlord.

originally posted October 7, 2006