New research shows a large portion of renters are taking matters into their own hands and making changes to their rental properties without approval from their landlord.

A study by Finder shows 23% have made changes to their rental homes, including repair work, without permission from a landlord or managing agent.

Most tenancy agreements require tenants to seek written approval before making changes to a property.

In NSW, a landlord cannot unreasonably withhold consent if the change is minor. In Queensland, if a tenant makes a change to the property without the landlord’s consent they may be asked to pay for the property to be reinstated to its original condition.

Victoria is the only state where, in most cases, prior landlord approval is not required for the installation of furniture anchors or picture frames so long as the property can be restored to its original condition when the tenancy ends.

Finder’s Sarah Megginson says making changes without approval is a risky strategy.