ᐅ How can I securely fasten Malm furniture in rental properties to comply with legal requirements?

Hello everyone,

I will soon be moving into a new rental apartment and want to securely attach my Malm furniture (wardrobe and dresser) to the wall to prevent accidents. However, I am unsure how to do this both legally and practically without causing issues with the landlord or risking problems when moving out.

My specific question is: What should I consider when securely and legally fixing Malm furniture in a rental apartment? Are there suitable methods that do not cause permanent damage, or should you always obtain explicit permission? Which fixing options are recommended to secure the furniture against tipping without damaging the wall?

Thank you very much for your advice!

As a general rule, always ask the landlord before drilling. For Malm furniture, I recommend tilt locks secured with screws into the wall – this ensures everything is firmly in place. If permission is not granted, some people use furniture connectors or clamp fittings that work without making holes.

The topic is somewhat legally complex and depends heavily on the rental agreement. In general, any alteration to the apartment that leaves traces requires approval. Anti-tip safety brackets for Malm furniture, which are screwed into the wall using anchors, are common in practice to prevent injuries.

Alternatives without wall mounting, such as cabinet connector sets or anti-tip devices attached directly to furniture parts, are possible but often do not provide the same level of protection.

When obtaining approval, it is important to ensure that the fittings can be removed without damage upon moving out and that any existing holes are properly repaired.

It is advisable to get written permission before installation and to agree on any potential cost-sharing for repairs.

draleo schrieb:
Anti-tip brackets for Malm furniture, which are screwed into the wall using anchors, are commonly used in practice

I see a potential conflict here: The landlord might argue that the tenant caused damage by drilling, thus damaging the rental property.

Kabau schrieb:
Always ask the landlord before drilling

That is exactly essential. But what if the landlord refuses permission? Are there legal options or alternative fixing methods available?

The discussion should also consider the aspect of the duty of care, since without proper fastening, furniture can tip over and cause damage.

Thanks in advance for the first helpful contributions!

Exactly, the issue of liability for traffic safety is important to me – I want to avoid putting myself or others at risk, especially since I have young children visiting.

If a written approval is required: What is the best way to phrase this? Is an email sufficient, or is a formal letter necessary?

I am also interested to know if there are specific securing systems recommended by the manufacturer for Malm furniture that work particularly well in rental apartments.

Looking forward to more experiences and recommendations!

Hello noix60,

I understand that securing the furniture properly with legal certainty is especially important to you. Generally, written communication is sufficient for obtaining permission – an email is usually enough, as it documents that you have asked for approval. It is important that you clearly explain how and where you plan to fix the furniture and that the fixtures can be removed without damage when you move out.

Regarding the Malm furniture, IKEA provides anti-tip straps that are commonly used – these are attached to the wall with anchors and are specifically designed for the furniture. If you choose this solution, mention it in your request to the landlord, as this appears professional.

If you do not get permission, self-adhesive or clamp-on safety devices are an alternative, but they do not offer the same level of protection.

One more tip: make sure to carry out the removal process after moving out as carefully as the installation. This helps to avoid disputes.