Living in an NYC rental often means accepting certain… quirks. The strange layout, the tiny kitchen, and very often, the sad, sad state of the bathroom. You might have a bathtub that’s permanently stained, chipped, or a color that hasn’t been fashionable in decades.

You’ve asked your landlord about a renovation, but it’s not in their budget. So, are you stuck with it for the length of your lease? Not necessarily.

Bathtub reglazing is a fantastic solution for renters who want to improve their living space without making permanent alterations or breaking the bank. It’s a temporary upgrade with long-lasting visual appeal.

Why Reglazing is Perfect for Renters:

• It’s Incredibly Affordable: Compared to any other bathroom upgrade, reglazing is by far the most budget-friendly. You can often get your tub transformed for less than the cost of one month’s rent.
• It’s Fast: The process takes just a few hours. You can have a “new” tub over a single weekend with almost no disruption.
• It’s Not a Permanent Change: While the finish is durable for years, it’s still just a coating. You’re not altering the structure of the bathroom, which is a key point for landlords.

How to Approach Your Landlord:

The best first step is always to ask. Frame it as a win-win. For a few hundred dollars (which you might offer to pay or split), you get a bathroom you love, and they get an upgraded apartment that will be easier to rent in the future. Many landlords are very open to this kind of improvement.

Even if they say no, the cost is often low enough that many tenants choose to do it themselves as an investment in their own quality of life. After all, you’re the one using that bathroom every single day. Why not make it a space that feels clean, fresh, and welcoming?