How often does a rental unit need to be repainted? I painted the unit two years ago and the paint still looks good (clean, no stains, etc.). I don’t see any reason to paint between tenants
You will want to research the issue to make sure if there are any state and local requirements, but generally a landlord is not required to paint a unit in between tenants. As of this writing the one known exception to the general rule is the New York City ordinance that requires repainting every three years or sooner if the walls become unsanitary through no fault of the tenant. As per the ordinance: “The landlord must paint occupied apartments in multiple-unit dwellings (defined as buildings with three or more apartments) every three years. (NYC Administrative Code §27-2013). Tenant occupied apartments in private dwellings are also required to be painted as necessary.”
Painting of a rental unit is generally a cosmetic issue that falls under the landlord’s discretion. Most often unless warranted for safety, health, or repair issues, painting is done to make the rental unit more attractive to potential tenants.
Landlords do have the obligation to maintain the rental unit to safe and sanitary conditions under the implied warranty of habitability of most states.
As example, under many habitability requirements in regards to paint, , a landlord must be keep “interior walls, ceilings and other exposed surfaces in rental units smooth, clean, free of flaking, loose or peeling paint.”
You should also review your lease to determine whether there is a clause regarding painting of the unit, the landlord or tenant responsibility for painting, and terms and conditions of painting the unit. Normal wear and tear of the rental unit including worn, faded paint is the landlord’s responsibility. Using good quality paint, a landlord should not have to frequently paint a unit unless the painted surfaces have been damaged. A common practice is to refresh the painting about every three years.