Can a renter put up a pergola without drilling in?

We found no pergola from Hanso or Sunjoy that skips anchoring, so a renter has to ask the landlord or pick something small.

What the makers say

1. Sunjoy: its manual says to anchor to a wood deck or concrete, not soil, and the anchors aren't included (manual).
2. Hanso: solid, level concrete at least 4 inches thick, or paving, or tile on concrete pads, or decking (Hanso spec sheet).

Neither mentions using weights or sandbags in place of anchors. Neither gives a wind number for a structure that isn't anchored. So any claim that a freestanding pergola is "wind rated" is not backed by what these makers publish.

What that leaves

• Ask the landlord in writing. Anchors into an existing concrete patio leave small holes. Many landlords say yes if you pay to patch. We can't speak for yours.
• Check your lease. Some leases ban any permanent structure.
• Pick the lowest-risk spot. A pergola next to a wall or fence, in a spot that is not open to wind, is safer than one in the middle of a yard. That's common sense, not a tested rule.
• Take it down for storm season. An unanchored structure in a gale can fly. It can hurt someone or hit a neighbor's house, and you may be the one who pays.

Cheaper and smaller

If you can't anchor, the safest choice is something you can fold or lower when wind is forecast. We haven't reviewed those yet. Check back, or email us.

Before you buy anything

Ask the maker, in writing: "Is this safe for use unanchored on a patio, and in what wind speed?" Save the answer.

Links

• Hanso Pro+ aluminum pergola kit
• Sunjoy 12x12 Roanforth hardtop gazebo

Read Nov 4, 2026. We are not recommending either for unanchored use.