Spooky Season Decorating: A Guide for Tenants and Landlords

As the nights draw in and autumn leaves crunch beneath our feet, it can only mean one thing—Halloween is just around the corner! 🎃 Whether you’re a tenant looking to spook up your rented home or a landlord keen on ensuring seasonal fun doesn’t lead to property damage, we’ve got you covered. Decorating for Halloween can be loads of fun, but when it comes to rented properties, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep both tenants and landlords happy.

Here are our top tips to make your home spooky without any long-term scares!

1. Stick to Non-Permanent Decorations

For tenants, it’s important to avoid anything that could leave a lasting mark on the property. Instead of nails and permanent fixtures, opt for removable hooks or adhesive strips to hang spooky items like cobwebs, skeletons, or fake bats. These can easily be taken down after Halloween without leaving behind any damage. And for landlords, encouraging non-invasive décor will give you peace of mind that your property won’t need a post-Halloween makeover!

2. Think About Your Neighbours

Halloween is all about having fun, but be mindful of those living nearby. If you’re planning to decorate outside with spooky lights, inflatable pumpkins, or any other outdoor gear, make sure it’s not disturbing your neighbours. Battery-operated or solar lights are a great option, as they won’t need extension cords running through communal areas or across lawns. Landlords can help by providing tenants with guidelines on communal spaces, so everyone can join in on the spooky fun without stepping on anyone’s toes.

3. Temporary Window Décor

For a quick and easy spooky transformation, try using window clings or temporary window decals. They’re affordable, effective, and most importantly, leave no residue behind! Whether you’re going for eerie silhouettes or playful pumpkin faces, window decals can help create a haunting atmosphere both inside and out.

4. Avoid Real Candles

As tempting as it might be to line your windowsills with flickering jack-o’-lanterns, real candles can pose a fire risk, especially in rented properties. Instead, opt for battery-powered LED candles or fairy lights to create that spooky glow without the danger. Landlords can remind tenants to stay fire-safe during the spooky season by recommending flame-free alternatives in communal updates.

5. Get Creative with DIY Décor

Decorating doesn’t have to be expensive! Tenants can craft their own spooky decorations using recyclable materials like cardboard or old sheets. Think homemade ghosts, DIY gravestones, or even a spooky wreath for the front door. And landlords, why not join in on the fun by providing some supplies or hosting a small Halloween decoration contest for your tenants? It’s a great way to build community spirit!

6. Respect the Property

While it’s great to get into the Halloween spirit, tenants should always respect the property and avoid making any changes that can’t be undone. For instance, painting the walls a spooky black or drilling holes for decorations would not be advisable in a rented home. Landlords can outline these rules in their rental agreements or gently remind tenants as Halloween approaches, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.

7. Outdoor Décor – Keep It Safe

If you’re decorating the outside of your property, make sure it’s safe and secure. Loose wires, precariously hung decorations, or trip hazards could not only endanger tenants but also visitors or delivery drivers. Landlords can provide useful tips on ensuring outdoor decorations don’t interfere with walkways or present any health and safety risks.

8. Don’t Forget the Clean-Up

As fun as Halloween can be, once the spooky season is over, it’s important to take down decorations promptly. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, make sure that all décor—both inside and out—is removed without leaving behind any damage or rubbish.

Final Thoughts

Halloween is a fantastic time of year to embrace your creative side and join in on the festivities. As long as tenants and landlords work together and follow these simple tips, everyone can enjoy a fun, safe, and hassle-free spooky season.

Remember: a little bit of preparation and communication goes a long way in making sure your home looks delightfully spooky without any frightening surprises when November comes around!

Happy Halloween from all of us at Three Sixty Living! 🎃👻