Repairing common rental damage as it occurs — and then following a clear rental repair checklist when you move out — can help you get your security deposit back without unexpected deductions. During a final inspection, landlords review all visible issues and may legally charge for damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear.
Let’s explore what repairs tenants are responsible for, so you’re not surprised by how much a landlord can charge for damages when your lease ends.
Why Simple Fixes Matter for Your Rent Deposit
When you leave your rental property clean and appearing well-cared for, it makes a positive impression on your landlord. When that happens, they are more likely to accept minor damage as acceptable wear and tear rather than as evidence that you allowed their property to fall into disrepair. That can make a significant difference when it's time to get your security deposit back.
Fixing small issues like nail holes, scuffs on the wall, loose fixtures, and other minor but common rental damage helps your landlord see worn carpeting or similar issues you can’t easily fix as simple wear and tear.
Understanding Your Responsibilities as a Renter
As a renter, you are responsible for returning the property to your landlord in good condition, minus normal wear and tear. You must abide by the rental agreement’s restrictions on guests, pets, and alterations — all of which have an impact on the property’s condition. Further, you must report any maintenance issues promptly to minimize the damage they can cause. Letting a leak, broken fixture, or appliance malfunction go unreported can turn a minor repair into a more expensive problem.
The difference between getting your security deposit back and worrying how much your landlord can charge for damages lies in how well you maintain the property. You cannot be charged for normal wear and tear, such as fading paint or average wear on the carpet. However, damage caused by negligence, such as holes in the wall, torn or stained carpet, and broken fixtures or countertops, will be deducted from your security deposit. If the required repairs exceed your deposit, your landlord can charge you for the difference.
For a broader look at renter rights, responsibilities, and lease basics, visit Wawanesa’s renting resource center.
A Rental Repair Checklist: Simple Fixes to Handle Before Moving Out
Before turning in your keys, walk through your rental with our rental repair checklist. This focuses on common rental damage that often comes up during move-out inspections — and that tenants are typically expected to address.
Walls and surfaces
- Fill small nail or screw holes from hanging pictures or décor
- Touch up visible scuffs or marks on walls
- Remove adhesive residue from hooks, tape, or decals
Doors, cabinets, and hardware
- Tighten any loose cabinet handles or knobs
- Make sure interior doors open, close, and latch properly
- Reattach towel bars or hooks that have come loose
Floors and carpets
- Spot-clean visible carpet stains
- Vacuum thoroughly, including corners and edges
- Check for loose or damaged transition strips
Bathroom wear
- Clean mildew or buildup around sinks, tubs, and showers
- Replace missing or damaged caulking where appropriate
- Make sure fixtures like towel racks and toilet paper holders are secure
Kitchen and appliances
- Clean grease buildup on stovetops, range hoods, and backsplashes
- Wipe out the oven and refrigerator
- Remove food residue or odors from cabinets and drawers
General cleaning details
- Clean baseboards, vents, and light switches
- Replace burned-out light bulbs
- Remove all personal items and trash
Following our rental repair checklist and taking care of common rental damage helps present the unit as clean and well-maintained. This supports your case that any remaining wear is the result of normal use — not negligence. If you’re unsure whether something falls under repairs tenants are responsible for, check your lease or contact your landlord before fixing it.
Top Rental Deposit Tips for Moving
Follow our rental deposit tips for moving to maximize your chances of getting your full deposit back. Start before you even move in. If this is your first rental, reviewing these helpful tips for first-time apartment renters can help you prepare for move-in day.
Before Moving In
Document everything.
During your initial walk-through, before you even move in, video or photograph the unit’s condition, and share it with the landlord.
Review your lease.
Your rental agreement outlines what repairs tenants are responsible for and the condition the property should be left in at move-out.
While Living There
Clean regularly.
Regular cleaning prevents stains, buildup, and odors. Keeping things in good repair helps prevent minor damage from getting worse.
Communicate.
Promptly notify your landlord about maintenance issues. Reporting problems early can prevent additional damage and protect you from being held responsible for repairs that worsen over time.
When Moving Out
Give notice in writing.
Give timely written notice that you're moving out, and keep a copy of the letter or email for your records.
Deep clean.
Clean everything, including inside cabinets and appliances, baseboards, air vents, windows, and blinds.
Make repairs.
Make any last repairs that tenants are responsible for. Be sure any touch-up paint used is an exact match.
Document everything — again.
Once the cleaning and repairs are finished, take detailed photos and video the condition of the property. Together with your initial documentation, this will help you if you dispute the landlord’s evaluation of the property’s condition.
Leave the place empty and ready to inspect.
Leaving personal items behind, even unintentionally, can delay inspections or result in additional charges. Make sure everything is removed — including any items stored in closets, cabinets, garages, or outdoor spaces.
Attend the final inspection.
Request a final walk-through with your landlord so you can address any concerns as they arise.
Confirm move-out procedures.
Ask how and when keys should be returned and where your deposit refund or itemized statement will be sent. Your landlord has 21 days to return your security deposit, less any deductions for damage repair.
Following these rental deposit tips for moving helps ensure you understand and meet your responsibilities as a tenant so you can get your security deposit back.
When You Should Call Maintenance or a Professional
Some repairs should never be handled by tenants. Contact maintenance for issues involving plumbing, electrical systems, heating or cooling, built-in appliances, or anything that affects safety. Do not attempt repairs that alter the property, such as painting, installing fixtures, or making structural changes, unless you have written permission. When a problem involves systems, safety, or permanent changes to the unit, calling maintenance or a professional is the right move.
How Renters Insurance & Security Deposit Insurance Fit In
Renters insurance and security deposit insurance serve very different purposes. Renters insurance protects you; security deposit insurance protects the landlord.
Renters insurance helps protect your personal belongings from covered losses such as theft, fire, or certain types of water damage, and may include liability coverage if you accidentally cause damage to the rental or injury to others. It does not cover routine wear and tear, maintenance issues, or repairs tenants are responsible for.
Security deposit insurance, where available, offers an alternative to paying a traditional cash deposit. Instead of paying a lump sum upfront, renters pay a non-refundable premium, and the insurer reimburses the landlord for any covered damage or unpaid rent, with the renter still responsible for repayment if a claim is made.
When you stay on top of common rental damage, follow our rental repair checklist, and prepare thoughtfully for move-out, you reduce the risk of disputes and unexpected charges. Follow our rental deposit tips for moving, and you'll maximize your chance of getting your full security deposit back.
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