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Maintenance, defects & expense allocation

Tenant Improvements

Upgrades or additions made to the apartment by the tenant beyond what the lease requires, which enhance living conditions or boost the property's value.

Tenant improvements can include installing a new air conditioner, adding built-in furniture, repainting, or upgrading the kitchen. Tenants are under no obligation to make these upgrades, and they are typically carried out with the landlord's consent. As a general rule, if an improvement is permanently attached and cannot be removed, it becomes the landlord's property at the end of the tenancy unless specifically agreed otherwise.

In some situations, a landlord might consent to share the cost of the upgrade (for example, splitting the installation of an air conditioner 50-50) or permit the tenant to take the improvement with them when leaving. It is vital to document any such agreement in writing as an addendum to the lease to avoid later disputes.

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The information in this glossary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. In the event of a dispute or a specific legal question, consult an attorney specializing in tenancy law.

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