😀
Real Property • Fixtures
PROP#097
Legal Definition
In the absence of an agreement, tenants lack intent to permanently improve property and may remove an <annexed chattel> if removal does not substantially damage the premises or destroy the chattel. It must be removed by the end of the lease term, and the tenant is responsible for repairs caused by removal.
The same applies to life tenants, except a life tenant's representative may remove annexations within a reasonable time after the life tenant's death.
The same applies to life tenants, except a life tenant's representative may remove annexations within a reasonable time after the life tenant's death.
Plain English Explanation
A great example of this are video doorbells. It's common for renters to install high-tech doorbells that can cost hundreds of dollars. While the doorbell is installed on the house during the tenant's lease, it is considered "annexed chattel," meaning it may become a fixture, but it isn't quite clear yet. All we know is that, at the moment, it appears affixed to the property like a fixture would be. Moreover, without an agreement between the tenant and landlord regarding how to handle such improvements, it's likely that the tenant will be allowed to take the video doorbell with them when they leave as long as they repair any damage caused from installing it (wiring, drilling holes, etc.).
