Painting your apartment in New York City might seem simple, but there are important rules to follow. Whether you rent or own, knowing these rules can help you avoid fines, problems with your landlord, or extra costs. Here’s what you need to know before you start.
Check Your Lease
If you rent, the first thing to do is check your lease. Many leases have rules about painting. Some landlords let tenants paint as long as they repaint the walls to the original color before moving out. Others require permission before any changes. If you’re not sure, ask your landlord to avoid trouble later.
Ask Your Landlord (If Needed)
Even if your lease doesn’t mention painting, it’s smart to check with your landlord first. Some buildings only allow certain colors or require professional painters. Getting written approval can help prevent problems when you move out.
Follow NYC Lead Paint Laws
If your building was built before 1978, it might have lead-based paint. NYC has strict laws to protect people, especially kids under six, from lead exposure. If young children live in the apartment, landlords must inspect and take safety steps before painting. If you think your walls have lead paint, hire a professional who is certified in lead-safe work.
Check Your Building Rules
If you own a co-op or condo, your building may have its own rules about painting. Some require you to use certain colors or hire licensed painters. Others may have rules about when you can paint to avoid disturbing neighbors. Before starting, check with your building’s management or board.
Avoid Noise and Strong Smells
Painting can be noisy and create strong smells. In NYC, quiet hours are usually from 10 PM to 7 AM. To avoid bothering neighbors, paint during the day and use low-VOC (low-fume) paints. These dry faster and don’t smell as strong.
Clean Up Before Moving Out
If you rent, you may need to repaint the walls back to the original color before you leave. If you don’t, your landlord may take money from your security deposit to cover the cost. Keep records of any agreements to protect yourself.
By knowing and following NYC’s apartment painting rules, you can avoid problems and finish your project smoothly. Whether you rent or own, taking the right steps will make the process easier.
This post was written by a professional at House of Color Painting & Decor. House of Color Painting & Decor is a painting company that is more than just your typical painting contractor. Their team set out to build a company that offers the best customer experience, the highest quality painting services, and the most innovative solutions to meet our customers’ needs.
