I'm renting a 1990s apartment in Utrecht with original melamine kitchen cabinets that look tired and yellowed. My landlord won't replace them, but said I can paint them if I restore them to original condition when I leave. Is cabinet painting worth it, or should I just live with them? What's the realistic cost?
✓ Accepted answer
Cabinet painting can make sense for renters — it costs €800–1,500 for a small kitchen (8–12 units) versus €3,000–8,000+ for replacement. Quality matters: proper prep (sanding, priming) and water-resistant paint take 5–7 days, but cheap jobs fail in 2–3 years in humid kitchens. Check your lease — you're responsible for restoration, so document the original condition with photos. Cost drivers: cabinet size, paint type (water-based vs. solvent), and whether frames are solid wood or melamine (melamine needs special primer). For a rental, mid-range is smart: expect €1,200–2,000 for durable results. Get 2–3 quotes from local painters on AstraNL who've done rental kitchens — they'll tell you honestly if it's worth your deposit risk.
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