Are Window Treatments Included In Rental Properties?

Landlords are generally responsible for providing window coverings, such as drapes, shades, and blinds, for their single-family rental property. However, they are not obligated to provide these treatments unless they were promised in the lease. The quality and design of these window treatments should be considered by the tenant.

In competitive rental markets, landlords often provide window treatments to make their properties more appealing to potential tenants. High-end or furnished rentals are more likely to have these treatments. In Massachusetts, laws state that there must be some type of window covering present, such as a shade, 1 inch blinds, or curtains. The State Sanitary Code doesn’t say landlords have to provide window coverings, but landlords may need to ask their local municipality or check with the landlord.

In competitive rental markets, landlords often provide window treatments to make their properties more appealing to potential tenants. Most do provide window treatments, but some don’t. If the property does not have any treatments, landlords must provide them according to minimum housing standards. This applies to all windows where tenants expect reasonable privacy.

In conclusion, landlords are not obligated to provide window coverings unless they promised them in the lease. However, landlords should consider the quality and design of these treatments when selecting, maintaining, and personalizing window treatments for their rental properties.

What is the difference between window coverings and window treatments?

A “treatment” is a decorative element that adds a decorative element to a window, while a window covering is something that covers the window for privacy and light control. The category of window treatments or coverings is broad and often confusing for homeowners due to the vast variety of choices and options, as well as unfamiliar terminology. To help consumers understand and choose the right window treatments for their home, it is essential to start with basic details.

What are window coverings considered?

Window coverings are materials used to cover windows for various purposes such as managing sunlight, privacy, weatherproofing, or decorative purposes. They are typically used on the interior side of windows but can also be used on the exterior side. Designers consider factors like light quantity, direct sunlight, light uniformity, and glare when designing window coverings.

Window coverings can provide a sense of privacy, especially when windows are located on the ground floor or face neighboring high-rise buildings. Poor privacy is often caused by windows facing nearby buildings. If occupants are not satisfied with the privacy provided by the window, window coverings may be used to avoid it.

Window coverings can also be applied temporarily to protect windows in storm conditions or for extra thermal performance in winter. Selection of window coverings depends on building usage and occupant activity, with daylighting metrics affecting the amount of daylight needed in the room. Aesthetic qualities of window coverings should also be considered, such as how the color, material, and style match the rest of the interior space.

Does every window need a treatment?

Window treatments are essential for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. They can be soft treatments like curtains, which are used to cover windows, and hard treatments like blinds and shutters, which are used to block out sunlight and create a barrier between the windows and the surrounding environment. Investing in window treatments can help create a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere, reducing the feeling of drabness and unfinishedness in your home. By investing in these treatments, you can create a more inviting and functional space that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your home.

Do landlords have to put locks on windows?

Landlords are responsible for ensuring the security of their property by providing and maintaining locks or security devices. The definition of security varies depending on the situation. Each tenant should receive a copy of the key or device to open any lock or security device on the property. At the end of a tenancy, the tenant must return all keys and security devices as provided at the start. Adding or changing locks or security devices during the tenancy can only be done with the consent of the other party or if there are reasonable grounds to do so.

Does a landlord have to provide window coverings in NSW?

It is essential that all rooms are equipped with adequate natural or artificial lighting, blinds or curtains for windows, and sufficient ventilation through openings.

What is considered a window treatment?

The category of window treatments encompasses a variety of options, including blinds, shades, shutters, curtains, and drapes. These can be arranged in a vertical or horizontal configuration and are typically operated via a wand or remote device.

Should an apartment come with curtains?

While landlords are not legally obliged to provide window coverings, they are nevertheless expected to meet the basic standards of habitability set out in the relevant legislation with regard to privacy and light control in their properties.

Do curtains count as window treatments?

Soft window treatments are defined as window coverings crafted from soft materials, including textiles and fabric. Examples of such materials include drapes, curtains, sheers, Roman shades, valances, and swags. Examples of such window treatments include the Soft Fold With Ties Valance, which is a mock Roman-style valance with contrast stirrups, and the Solar Shades, which is a roller shade designed to protect against UV rays.

Do landlords have to provide curtains in the UK?

Landlords often purchase and install curtains and blinds in rental properties, as they are often made to measure and can be challenging to find the correct size for windows and fit curtain rails properly. This is a common practice, as it shows professionalism and proactiveness, even if it’s not a legal requirement. Many landlords choose to take care of fitting curtains and blinds themselves, as it is a necessity for many properties.

Do curtains come with property?

It is generally accepted that window coverings remain with the property, although there are instances where this is not the case, depending on the treatment type. Blinds, shades, and window rods are regarded as fixtures, whereas drapery and curtains that are mounted on a rod are classified as personal property.

Are curtains considered part of the house?

Window treatments, such as drapes and curtains that can be drawn across a rod, are regarded as personal property and may not be compatible with the dimensions of the windows in the seller’s new residence. It is advisable to stipulate in the contract whether the aforementioned treatments are to be retained or removed.