Exterior Liabilities
Answers for Renters

Check with your apartment manager before placing or hanging anything on the balcony, ledge or window of your unit. Most apartment communities have restrictions to ensure the safety, maintenance and overall appearance of the property.
         
For instance, you should not place potted plants on your balcony railing. Most railings are only a few inches wide and cannot support heavy objects. A strong breeze or an unintentional bump may cause the pot to fall and cause injury or damage to someone or something below.
         
Installing sunshades, wind chimes or satellite TV dishes may affect the exterior of the building. If you screw or nail something to the exterior of your unit, the hole you create may allow water to leak into the walls of the building, especially during the rainy season. You may be held liable for any damage, which could be thousands of dollars.
         
Do not hang clothes to dry on your balcony, and keep other unsightly items out of view. Your property manager and fellow residents will appreciate your consideration.