When the end of your lease is near, preparing your Townsville rental property for a final inspection becomes a top priority—especially if you want your bond back in full. While deep cleaning is crucial, it’s only part of the equation. Minor damages and wear that go unaddressed can quickly lead to bond deductions. Townsville’s humid climate, coastal air, and tropical conditions also bring unique maintenance challenges. To avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth exit, here are the most important pre-move-out repairs every tenant should consider.
1. Patch Wall Damage and Paint Touch-Ups
Over time, everyday living can leave marks on walls—from picture hook holes and scratches to chipped paint and scuffs. Property managers expect walls to be returned in the same condition as recorded in the entry condition report, excluding fair wear and tear.
What to do:
- Fill nail holes with wall putty or filler, then sand smooth.
- Touch up chipped or stained paint using the original paint colour. If you’re unsure of the exact shade, ask your property manager or landlord.
- Wipe down all walls to remove scuff marks, handprints, or grime.
Pro tip: Avoid over-painting or mismatched paint jobs, as they can stand out more than a well-worn wall.
2. Fix Doors, Handles, and Hinges
Loose door handles, creaky hinges, and sticking doors can be frustrating for new tenants and may lead to repair charges if flagged during inspection.
What to do:
- Tighten loose screws on doors, cabinet handles, and drawers.
- Apply lubricant to squeaky or jammed hinges.
- Replace damaged doorknobs or catches—hardware stores often carry affordable replacements.
Even minor adjustments can make a big difference in your final inspection.
3. Repair or Replace Damaged Blinds and Curtains
Sun exposure and daily use often cause wear to window coverings, especially in sunny Townsville. Broken vertical slats, tangled roller blinds, or dirty curtain rods will not go unnoticed.
What to do:
- Straighten or replace bent slats.
- Fix chains and cords that no longer function.
- Wash curtains or wipe down blinds to remove dust and stains.
Neglecting blinds is a common oversight that could cost you part of your bond.
4. Deal with Carpet Stains and Flooring Issues
Carpets, tiles, and vinyl floors endure the most wear in rental homes. While standard wear is expected, visible stains, burns, or scratches are a red flag.
What to do:
- Treat carpet stains with specialised cleaners or hire a professional steam cleaning service.
- Polish scuffed floors or use repair kits to fix minor vinyl damage.
- Replace or re-adhere any loose tiles or lifting edges on laminate floors.
Many leases in Townsville require carpets to be professionally cleaned—check your agreement and keep receipts for proof.
5. Replace Burnt-Out Light Bulbs and Fix Electrical Fittings
While it seems small, a single burnt-out bulb or faulty switch can cost you if not addressed.
What to do:
- Check all light fixtures and replace any non-working bulbs.
- Clean dirty light fittings and replace cracked covers or switches.
- Ensure ceiling fans operate correctly—common in many Townsville rentals.
Your property should be returned in full working order, which includes functioning lighting throughout.
6. Tackle Flyscreens and Screen Doors
Townsville’s tropical conditions make flyscreens and screen doors a must—but they’re often the first to suffer wear and tear.
What to do:
- Replace torn or loose flyscreens on windows and doors.
- Ensure sliding doors are aligned and move smoothly on tracks.
- Wipe down mesh and clean door handles and locks.
These features not only affect property appearance but also tenant safety and pest prevention.
7. Unblock and Clean Drains
Blocked or slow-draining sinks and showers are not only unhygienic—they’re also a frequent cause for withheld bonds.
What to do:
- Use drain cleaner or a plunger to clear mild clogs.
- Remove visible buildup (hair, soap residue) from bathroom drains.
- Ensure kitchen sinks and garbage disposal systems are clean and functional.
Proper drain maintenance can save you from the headache of post-inspection charges.
8. Repair Garden and Outdoor Damage
Many Townsville homes include outdoor areas, and these must be restored to the same tidy condition they were in at the start of your tenancy.
What to do:
- Mow the lawn, edge paths, and remove weeds.
- Sweep patios, clean driveways, and remove any rubbish.
- Repair broken fences, loose pavers, or garden lights if applicable.
Outdoor presentation is just as important as indoors during a bond inspection.
Conclusion
Getting your full bond back in Townsville involves more than just a surface clean. Addressing essential pre-move-out repairs is key to meeting your lease obligations and avoiding unnecessary deductions. By tending to minor damages, fixing fixtures, and presenting a well-maintained property—inside and out—you stand the best chance of leaving on good terms and receiving your entire bond. If in doubt, a quick consultation with your property manager or a bond cleaning professional can help ensure nothing is overlooked.
