Interior & Exterior Works · Question

Do I need permission from the landlord before starting fit-out works in rented premises?

Short answer

Yes, in nearly every case you should get the landlord's written approval first. Your lease or rent agreement usually controls alterations, and a building management or society may have its own rules and charges too. Starting without consent can lead to disputes, stoppage of work, loss of deposit or a demand to restore the premises at your cost.

In more detail

A tenant holds a right to use the premises, not to change them freely. Light cosmetic work, such as paint or movable partitions, is often tolerated, while anything touching structure, services, facade, signage or fire arrangements normally needs consent.

Read the lease first. Look for clauses on alterations, reinstatement, signage, utilities and who owns improvements at the end of the term. If the document is silent or unclear, resolve it with the landlord in writing before spending money.

Several parties may need to be informed beyond the owner:

The landlord, for design, layout and any structural or services changes
The building or mall management, for working hours, material movement, deposits and rules
The housing society or association, in residential or mixed buildings
The local authority, where the work needs a permission under local rules, which the competent authority decides
Your insurer, where the premises or stock are covered

Get consent that is specific

A casual verbal go-ahead is weak evidence. Ask for a short letter or email that attaches the layout and finish plan and states any conditions, restoration duties or timelines.

Discuss restoration early. Some landlords expect premises returned to the original state, others allow improvements to remain. This affects how much you should invest in fixed items versus movable ones, and whether to negotiate a rent-free fit-out period.

Share the approved plan with your contractor so that site work follows what was permitted.

Key points

Alterations in rented premises are normally governed by the lease and need written consent.
Building management and society rules may add approvals, deposits and working-hour limits.
Structural, services, facade and signage changes are the most sensitive.
Agree restoration and ownership of improvements before work begins.
Share the permitted plan with your contractor and keep the approval on file.

Who this applies to

Tenants planning a shop, clinic, office or showroom fit-out.
Franchise and chain operators setting up new outlets in leased units.
Owners leasing out space who want to understand what tenants should seek approval for.

Last reviewed 3 October 2026

This answer is general information, not advice on your particular case. Terms, eligibility, and requirements change, so check the current position with the relevant institution or authority.