🏠🛠💰 How to Fix Small Damages (Wall Scuffs, Holes, & Scratches) to Avoid Landlord Fees
Moving out soon? Wall scuffs, small holes, and scratches are some of the most common reasons landlords deduct from security deposits. The good news? These minor damages are easy to fix with a little time and effort. Follow this landlord-approved guide to leave your rental looking pristine—and keep your money where it belongs. Investing a few minutes in these fixes can mean the difference between losing money and walking away with your full deposit.
🔍 Why Fixing Small Damages Matters
Many landlords charge high fees for simple repairs that tenants can easily do themselves. A small hole that takes 5 minutes to patch could turn into a $100 deduction on your deposit. Fixing small issues before move-out helps you:
✔ Save money on unnecessary deductions.
✔ Leave a good impression for references.
✔ Ensure a smooth final inspection.
✔ Prevent landlord disputes over damage claims.
✔ Show responsibility as a tenant, which may help with future rentals.
🏠 How to Fix Wall Scuffs & Marks
🧽 1. Erase Minor Scuff Marks
✔ Use a magic eraser (like Mr. Clean) to buff out scuffs.
✔ A mix of baking soda & water on a sponge can also work.
✔ Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth to avoid streaks.
✔ If scuffs persist, a small amount of mild detergent can help remove stubborn marks.
🎨 2. Touch Up Paint for Stubborn Marks
✔ If scuffs won’t come out, use a small amount of matching paint to cover them.
✔ Landlords may charge for repainting if the color is too different, so check your lease for exact paint codes.
✔ Apply lightly with a foam brush or small roller to blend in.
✔ If necessary, apply two thin coats instead of one thick layer for a seamless finish.
✔ Let the paint dry completely before assessing whether another coat is needed.
🔨 How to Repair Small Holes in Walls
🏡 1. Patching Nail & Screw Holes
✔ Fill holes with spackle or lightweight wall putty.
✔ Smooth out with a putty knife or old credit card.
✔ Let dry for 15-30 minutes, then lightly sand until smooth.
✔ Paint over the repaired area to blend seamlessly.
✔ For the best results, prime the patched area before painting to prevent uneven coloring.
🛠 2. Fixing Larger Holes (Up to 2 Inches)
✔ Use a patch repair kit from any hardware store.
✔ Apply the patch, cover with joint compound, and smooth out.
✔ Once dry, sand and paint to match the wall.
✔ Make sure the patch is fully set before sanding to avoid rough spots.
✔ Double-check that the texture matches surrounding walls for a seamless look.
🏚 How to Repair Scratches on Floors & Wood Surfaces
🪵 1. Minor Scratches on Wood Floors
✔ Use a wood marker or furniture repair crayon in a matching color.
✔ Lightly buff with a soft cloth to blend.
✔ For deeper scratches, apply a thin layer of wood filler and sand before refinishing.
✔ Apply a clear floor polish to restore shine after fixing scratches.
✔ Avoid using excessive water when cleaning repaired areas to prevent damage.
🚪 2. Fixing Scratches on Doors & Trim
✔ Apply wood filler to deep scratches, let dry, then sand.
✔ Use matching paint or stain to restore color.
✔ Buff with a soft cloth to blend.
✔ If repainting, use a semi-gloss finish for trim and doors to match the original look.
✔ Be sure to feather the edges of the paint for a seamless finish.
🏆 Final Move-Out Touches
✔ Check walls, floors, and trim for missed spots.
✔ Wipe down baseboards and door frames.
✔ Take photos after repairs for proof before handing over the keys.
✔ Make sure all surfaces are dry and free of dust before your final walk-through.
✔ Ensure that any leftover materials (like paint or putty) are properly disposed of.
✔ Conduct a final inspection yourself to catch any last-minute fixes before the landlord arrives.
🏠🛠💰 Fixing small damages yourself takes just a few minutes—and can save you hundreds in move-out fees! Follow these steps to ensure your rental looks flawless and secure your full deposit.
📊 Damage Repair Summary Table
| Damage Type | Fix Method | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Scuffs | Magic eraser, touch-up paint | Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Behr Paint |
| Nail Holes | Spackle, sand, paint | 3M Patch Plus Primer, putty knife |
| Large Holes | Patch kit, joint compound | Drywall Repair Kit, joint compound |
| Wood Scratches | Wood marker, filler | Minwax Stain Marker, Elmer’s Wood Filler |
| Trim Scratches | Sand, stain or paint | Minwax Stain, Rust-Oleum Trim Paint |