No one likes being watched by passers-by. In that case, nothing beats installing a good blackout privacy screen. But who is responsible for installing a privacy screen? Is it the tenant or the owner who must take the necessary steps, and what regulations apply? Let us look at this in detail.
Tenants’ rights to install a privacy screen
The tenant has a right to privacy and may wish to protect their privacy on their balcony or in their garden. The law allows them to install a temporary privacy screen without making structural changes to the property. In practice, this means they can install removable solutions such as a reed screen or a fabric privacy screen.
More substantial work requires the owner’s prior written consent, in particular to fix posts or a rigid privacy screen. The tenant must be able to restore the property to its original condition when they leave.
Permissions required from the owner
For any permanent installation project, the tenant must send a detailed request to the owner by registered letter. This request will specify the type of privacy screen planned, how it will be fixed, and its exact location on the property.
The owner has a two-month period to respond. Their written consent is essential before starting any work. If they refuse, the tenant will need to opt for temporary, removable solutions.
Different types of privacy screens permitted in rental properties
Temporary privacy screens such as willow or bamboo reed screens, stretched fabric screens, and artificial hedges on a mobile support are permitted without special authorisation. These solutions protect privacy without damaging the property.
Rigid privacy screens in aluminium or PVC require the owner’s consent because they involve permanent fixings. To avoid any dispute at the end of the lease, the tenant may prefer removable systems that do not alter the structure of the property.
Owner responsibilities and obligations
The owner cannot object without a valid reason to the installation of a temporary privacy screen that complies with condominium rules. They must guarantee peaceful enjoyment of the premises for their tenant, which includes the right to privacy.
As long as the privacy screen complies with regulations, under the local planning rules (PLU) and the condominium rules.
If the privacy screen is damaged due to a lack of building maintenance, such as a poorly secured gutter that drains directly onto a fence, the owner will have to cover the repairs. The rental agreement may specify the conditions for installing and maintaining privacy screens.
Temporary solutions to protect your privacy
Cloture Discount offers several options suitable for tenants: natural willow or bamboo reed screens, micro-perforated fabric privacy screens with eyelets, artificial hedges. These solutions are easy to install and remove.
For balconies, polyester privacy screens fixed with bungee cords or cable offer a good alternative. Planters with climbing plants are also a plant-based solution approved by most owners.
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