Small holes are the easiest deposit deduction to avoid, because a nail or screw hole takes about five minutes and a couple of cheap materials to erase. Here's how to fill and repair wall holes so no inspector can find them.
What you need
Lightweight filler, a small filling knife or an old card, fine sandpaper, and a little of the original wall paint. Keeping a paint sample from the day you moved in makes the last step trivial.
Step 1: clean and fill
Brush out any loose plaster, then press filler into the hole with the knife, slightly overfilling so it stands a touch proud. Scrape the excess flush.
Step 2: sand smooth
Once it's fully dry, sand lightly until the patch is level with the wall. Run your hand over it; you shouldn't feel the join.
Step 3: match and touch up
Dab on matching paint with a small brush, feathering the edges. If you don't have the original colour, a paint shop can match a chip. Let it dry and check in daylight.
Better yet: don't make the hole
The only wall you never have to repair is the one you never drilled. Over-door racks, magnetic hooks, and adhesive-mounted shelves hold most of what you need with nothing to fill later. Browse the no-drill range.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best filler for nail holes in a rental?
A lightweight interior filler is enough for small nail and screw holes. It dries fast, sands easily, and takes paint well.
How do I match the wall paint?
Keep a sample from move-in day. If you don't have one, take a chip to a paint shop for a colour match. Dab, feather the edges, and check in daylight.
How do I avoid wall holes in the first place?
Hang things with over-door racks, magnetic hooks, and adhesive strips. There's nothing to repair when you leave.
Keep reading: How to Get Your Full Deposit Back.