As mentioned earlier this week, we're moving. Our landlords are letting us paint, which is fantastic, and, what's more, they're also going to pay for the paint. We'd prefer to use a zero-VOC paint. Our problem? Here in Berkeley, American Pride runs $39 a gallon, while Consumer Reports' top pick, Behr Paint from Home Depot, costs a lot less than that. So, how to convince the landlord? Here are our ideas—we'd love to hear yours.
Good Question: How to Convince a Landlord to Go Green?
- Present a high/medium/low option, with zero-VOC paint positioned between, say, Ralph Lauren and Behr.
- Make the case for zero-VOC paint on its environmental merits and hope that resonates with the landlords.
- Just run a number past the landlords (i.e., it's going to cost $XX) and keep other information to a minimum.
image by snicklin via sxc.hu
Comments (4)
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Offer to pay the difference.
view SFGail's profile
I agree -- offer to pay the difference. And, invite them over for a "whiff" while you are painting. I bet they'll be surprised!
view Green Me's profile
I just asked my landlord for the money for the paint, however much he thought was fair. He was glad to not have to hire someone to do it for us, so he didn't ask too many questions. I would keep it simple.
view sadiehawkins's profile
Definitely pay the difference. Don't think of all the money you're spending on paint; think of all the money you're SAVING with their contribution.
view CaseyB's profile