End-of-tenancy is one of the most stressful times for renters — and surface damage is among the most common reasons landlords make deposit deductions. A chipped bath, a damaged worktop, a cracked tile or a scratched kitchen sink can result in deposit deductions that significantly exceed the cost of professional repair. Acting proactively before your check-out can save you money and stress.
Why Professional Repair Is Better Than Hoping the Landlord Won’t Notice
Landlords and letting agents conducting end-of-tenancy inspections are experienced at identifying surface damage. They compare the property’s current condition against the check-in inventory, noting every chip, crack and scratch. A chip you’ve lived with for two years is very obvious to someone seeing the property with fresh eyes. Proactive repair before the inspection is nearly always the better strategy.
What You’re Responsible For
Tenants are responsible for damage beyond fair wear and tear. This includes:
- Chips in worktops from dropped pans, knives or heavy objects
- Chips or cracks in baths, shower trays or sinks from dropped items
- Tile chips from impact damage
- Burns or scorch marks on worktops
- Deep scratches or gouges in floors or surfaces caused by negligent use
You are not responsible for gradual dulling of surfaces from normal use, light scuffing, or minor surface wear consistent with the length of the tenancy.
Timing Your Pre-Check-Out Repair
Book your surface repair with sufficient time before your check-out inspection to allow repairs to fully cure. Most repairs are touch-dry within hours and fully cured within 24 hours. Ideally, arrange repair 1–3 days before your check-out so the property looks its best at inspection time.
What to Tell Your Repair Technician
Let your technician know this is a pre-check-out repair. They’ll prioritise invisible results and can advise on which repairs are worth doing vs. those where fair wear and tear is the more defensible position. Having the repair invoice available at your check-out inspection also demonstrates good faith to the landlord or letting agent.
