A Desirable but Non-Standard Feature
Dimmer switches (dimmers) are a highly desirable feature in a rental property, offering a significant upgrade in comfort and ambiance over standard on/off switches. They provide the flexibility to adjust the light intensity to suit the activity—bright for working or cleaning, and low and warm for relaxing or dining. While they are increasingly common in modern and renovated apartments, they are by no means a standard provision. Many rental properties will only have basic toggle switches. The presence of dimmers on key lights, especially in the living room and bedroom, is a definite plus point and a sign of a higher-quality finish. However, as they are not considered an essential feature, a landlord is under no obligation to install them upon a tenant's request.
Compatibility and Types
Not all dimmers work with all types of light bulbs, and this is a common source of frustration. Older dimmer switches were designed for incandescent bulbs and often do not work well with modern, energy-efficient LED bulbs. Using a non-compatible bulb can result in flickering, buzzing, or the bulb simply not working at all. It is crucial to use specifically 'dimmable' (dimbaar) LED bulbs with a compatible dimmer. There are also different types of dimmers, from the classic rotating knob to more modern push-button or slider controls. During a viewing, it's always a good idea to test the dimmer switches to ensure they function smoothly and silently across the full range of brightness.
Tenant Installations and Responsibility
If an apartment does not have dimmers, a tenant might consider installing them themselves. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive modification. However, as it involves altering the electrical system, it is advisable to seek the landlord's permission first. Legally, a tenant is allowed to make minor changes to the property that can be easily reversed upon moving out. This means if you install your own dimmer switches, you should keep the original switches and be prepared to reinstall them at the end of your tenancy if the landlord requests it. Any damage caused by an incorrect installation would be the tenant's responsibility, so if you are not confident with electrical work, it is best to hire a professional. The landlord is responsible for maintaining any dimmers that were part of the property when you moved in, but the tenant is responsible for using the correct compatible bulbs.
