Getting Your Rental Home Move-Out Ready: Avoiding Expensive Damage Charges

Most expensive move-out charges aren't caused by one big mistake. They're usually the result of small issues that went unaddressed or damage that escalated over time.

This guide focuses on the areas that most often lead to higher charges and what you can do before move-out to reduce them.

Start with the Right Mindset

Move-out charges are not about perfection. They're about preventing damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, leaving the home in a reasonably clean, undamaged condition, and avoiding issues that require vendors, multiple trades, or replacement.

Understanding what landlords can legally deduct for helps set expectations: https://know.movezen360.com/what-are-permitted-uses-of-the-security-deposit-by-a-landlord-or-agent

Address Issues Early (Before They Grow)

Small problems often turn into expensive ones when they're ignored.

Examples:

A slow leak becomes cabinet or floor damage
Pet accidents soak into subfloor
Loose fixtures turn into broken ones
Minor wall damage becomes large repairs

Reporting maintenance issues promptly during your lease can significantly reduce move-out charges: https://know.movezen360.com/security-deposit-handling-and-normal-wear-tear

Focus on High-Cost Damage Areas First

These areas are most likely to result in vendor-level repair costs if damaged:

Floors

Deep scratches, stains, burns, or water damage, and pet-related odor or urine damage. Flooring issues often require partial or full replacement.

Plumbing & bathrooms

Broken fixtures, clogged drains from improper use, and water damage caused by overflows or neglect.

Kitchens & appliances

Countertop burns or chips, broken appliance components, and damage from improper cleaning methods.

Walls & structural surfaces

Large holes from mounts or shelving, impact damage, and poorly patched repairs.

Examples of damage that commonly result in higher charges are outlined here: https://know.movezen360.com/what-are-some-common-examples-of-damage-beyond-ordinary-wear-and-tear

Know What Not to Worry About Too Much

Not everything requires fixing before move-out.

These are usually ordinary wear and tear, not chargeable damage:

Minor scuffs or marks
Light carpet wear
Faded paint
Small nail holes

Understanding the difference helps you focus effort where it matters: https://know.movezen360.com/security-deposit-handling-and-normal-wear-tear

Be Careful with DIY Repairs

DIY fixes can help or hurt.

DIY is risky when materials don't match, repairs look unfinished, or damage is structural or safety-related.

Poor repairs can increase costs by requiring undoing and redoing work. When in doubt, it's often better to leave repairs to professionals.

Clean Thoroughly, But Realistically

Cleaning charges are common, but avoidable.

Focus on:

Appliances (inside and out)
Bathrooms
Floors and baseboards
Cabinets and closets

Cleaning is deductible only when it goes beyond normal turnover needs, but excessive filth almost always results in charges.

Document Everything Before You Leave

Before turning in keys:

Take clear photos and video of every room
Capture close-ups of repaired areas
Document appliances, floors, and walls

This helps if questions arise during deposit accounting.

Understand Timing and Expectations

After move-out, final charges aren't known immediately, vendor invoices and reviews take time, and you'll receive an interim or final accounting within legal timelines.

Why charges aren't available immediately after inspection is explained here: https://know.movezen360.com/is-there-a-deadline-by-which-the-landlord-or-agent-must-return-a-security-deposit

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth fixing damage myself before move-out?
Sometimes, but only if repairs are clean, professional-looking, and allowed by the lease.

What damage tends to cost the most?
Flooring, plumbing issues, pet damage, appliance damage, and structural repairs.

Can I reduce charges by cleaning really well?
Yes. Cleaning is one of the most controllable move-out factors.

Will ordinary wear still be charged if there's other damage?
No. Ordinary wear and tear remains non-deductible.

What if I know there will be damage no matter what?
Understanding likely costs ahead of time helps set realistic expectations: https://know.movezen360.com/im-moving-out-soon-and-there-will-be-some-damage-beyond-normal-wear-and-tear-left.-how-will-i-know-the-approximate-amount-i-can-expect-to-be-charged