Tenant wants to modify bathroom...thoughts?

[Slade Harrison]

Little backstory: Rental is a 1300 sq/ft SFH in a great neighborhood in Northwest Florida. House used to be my primary before moving into a bigger house. Been renting to this couple for the past 3 years. They pay via direct deposit, never been late and take great care of the house. They are older (late 60's), retired military.

I was at the property this past weekend spring cleaning, pressure washing, trimming trees, etc... because I self manage both of my rental properties. The husband comes outside to shoot the breeze and I ask about the house, if they are having any issues, he says no but wanted to ask me about swapping the shower/tub in the guest bathroom to one of those walk-in bathtubs...He said his wife has trouble lifting her legs into the shower as it is and that they would pay for the tub and install. I told him to let me think about it and I'd get back with him soon.

I just worry that if I ever decide to sell the house that a walk-in tub would negatively affect the re-sell value, especially given that this is essentially a starter type home...My initial reaction is no, but then I think that if they want to make this change and pay for the modification, they have no intention of leaving and I would have a very long term, dependable tenant.

Could I stipulate that they can change it out but if they decide to leave they have to swap it out for a one piece shower/tub combo that I originally had? What if I decide to not renew there lease and want to sell the house? I would feel obligated to reimburse them...

Thanks in advance for any advice BP community!

[Patti Robertson]

I think this would be considered a "reasonable accommodation" due to what is likely some sort of handicap. Legally you can't tell him no, but you can require they remove the accommodation when they leave.  Personally I think it's an asset.  Most people, even who don't need it, would find this a cool feature.  In Virginia our state even has grant money that tenants can use to make accommodation to their homes. In order to be approved the vendors have to be licensed and approved.  You could make that stipulation as well, to ensure it is done the right way.