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Renting a place always comes with a few quirks—scuffed walls, squeaky hinges, and taps that sound like they’re clearing their throat.
It’s all part of the charm until inspection day rolls around. The good news? Most of these little annoyances are easy to fix without calling in the experts or your landlord.
A quick patch-up here and a dab of WD-40 there can save your bond and your sanity. This guide covers simple fixes to keep your rental looking sharp without blowing your budget or breaking the terms of your contract.
Fixing Scuffed Walls
If you are worried about scuffed rental walls, rest assured, most of these issues can be fixed with ease.
First, wipe the wall with a damp cloth to remove dirt, but make sure your solution is gentle enough to avoid damaging the paint. For stubborn marks, use a soft sponge, and be careful while cleaning up the smudges.
If repainting is needed, take a sample of the current colour paint to your local shop for a perfect match. It’s worth hanging onto any leftover paint for future quick touch-ups.
Addressing these marks early keeps your place looking tidy and helps avoid additional repainting costs when it’s time to move out. For extra peace of mind, consider booking a move-out house cleaning service before you leave.
This is the best way to have a comfortable stay in your leased accommodation. It also guarantees an easy departure without any additional chores or bond deductions.
Dealing with Squeaky Doors
Door hinges can start making noise unexpectedly, often due to dry or loose fittings. A quick spray of WD-40 or another light lubricant usually fixes this issue. Don’t overdo it, though. Using too much can actually attract dirt.
If the hinges continue to squeak, tighten any loose screws. You can also adjust the door to ensure proper alignment and eliminate unwanted sounds.
Managing those little noises can also keep the peace with your landlord and neighbours.
You don’t need fancy tools or outside assistance. Just a few minutes and a quick fix can improve your home’s atmosphere.
Unclogging Drains
Blocked drains are a common headache in rentals, but staying on top of them makes all the difference. You can combine baking soda and vinegar to break down buildup and keep the water flowing.
To avoid future clogs, keep grease, coffee grounds, and hair out of your drains. Checking your drain covers regularly helps maintain proper water flow and keeps unpleasant odours at bay as well.
Acting early can save you from the hassle and expense of calling in a plumber down the line.
Fixing Leaky Taps
Dealing with a dripping bathroom or kitchen tap can seem tricky, but it’s often a simple fix. Start by identifying the leak source, usually caused by a worn seal or a damaged O-ring.
You will need a wrench and a screwdriver for this task. Before starting, make sure to turn off the water to avoid any unexpected sprays.
When removing the tap handle, take a quick photo before dismantling it to make reassembly easier. Check the valve seat for mineral build-up and clean it gently with vinegar or a soft brush if needed.
If you need a new part, you’ll be able to find one at any local hardware store at a reasonable price. However, if you’re not sure which size you need, take the old piece with you for comparison. The staff have seen it all before and can usually point you in the right direction.
Replacing Light Bulbs and Fixtures
Good lighting makes a big difference in both safety and comfort. If a bulb goes out, use a sturdy ladder and gloves when replacing it to stay safe.
You should also consider using LED bulbs in all rooms. They reduce power consumption and require less frequent replacement. For an extra personal touch, choose warm light for cosy areas, like bedrooms, and cooler tones for kitchens or workspaces.
On top of that, dusting your light fixtures improves illumination throughout your space, so make sure to clean them regularly.
While you’re at it, remember to check for loose connections and tighten them to prevent electrical issues.
Using Command Strips for Wall Decor
Personalising your rental doesn’t have to mean drilling holes or risking your bond.
Command strips are a simple, damage-free solution for hanging items without marking your walls. For the best results, start by wiping the wall with rubbing alcohol, then apply the strips to your picture frame or decoration, pressing firmly for 30 seconds.
Just be sure to follow the weight guidelines so nothing comes crashing down. If you’re unsure, opt for multiple strips or spread the weight across several points for a better hold.
The best part is that these strips come off cleanly, leaving no damage, so when it’s time to move out, you can take down your décor without leaving a trace.
Keep Exhaust Fans Quiet and Clean
Exhaust fans in bathrooms or kitchens can get loud over time, especially if they’re dusty or haven’t been cleaned in a while. A quick vacuum and wipe-down of the fan cover can reduce the noise and help it run more efficiently.
If the noise persists, tightening the cover or securing loose parts can often solve the issue.
Remember that a clean, quiet fan prevents mould, keeps humidity in check, and improves overall air quality in damp areas. So, regularly check your fan every few months to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
Freshen Up Grout and Silicone Seals
Grimy grout or peeling silicone in kitchens and bathrooms can make the whole place feel less clean than it is. A grout pen can quickly refresh tired-looking tiles without the need for regrouting.
For silicone that’s mouldy or lifting, you can peel it off and replace it with a fresh line. Just make sure the area is dry before applying. It’s a simple way to prevent mould buildup and protect surfaces from long-term moisture damage.
Conclusion
A few quick fixes now can save you a whole lot of stress and money later on, potentially saving you from extra charges when it’s time to leave. Whether it’s a leaky tap or a scuffed wall, most issues are easier to deal with than you’d think.
You don’t need perfect results, either. Just keeping on top of these small tasks goes a long way. So, handle these issues early, stay consistent, and your future self will thank you!
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