We want you to enjoy your home – it is your place to feel safe and secure.
However, it is important to remember that although it is your home, it is owned by the City of Wolverhampton Council.
This means that if you have a secure Wolverhampton Homes tenancy, you must get written permission from us before making any changes to your home or garden.
The only exception is painting and decorating, which you can do without asking us first.
Changes you must ask permission for includes things like:
- Building a shed, decking, extension or lean-to
- Removing walls or changing your staircase
- Installing new windows or patio doors
- Refurbishing your kitchen or bathroom
- Changing taps
- Installing an EV charging point
- Installing a smart doorbell or CCTV
- Laying new paving or creating a driveway
If you are not sure whether you need permission, please ask us before starting any work.
What happens if you don't get permission?
If you make changes without written permission, you may have to pay to put your home back to its original condition. It could also be considered a breach of your tenancy and may affect your right to buy.
Repairs to tenant-installed items
If something you have installed breaks or fails, Wolverhampton Homes will not repair or replace it, even if you had written permission to install it.
When we cannot give permission
We cannot approve alterations if:
- You are in rent arrears
- You are in the first year of a new tenancy
You can find more information about your responsibilities as a tenant or leaseholder on the Tenancy Agreement page of this website.
From 01 July 2026, an updated tenancy agreement comes into effect. Please read the new agreement to see what has changed on the City of Wolverhampton Council website.