Moving Tips: Minimize damage visibility before a move

When packing up to head to a new residence, it is important for you to examine every aspect of your home to make sure that you don't leave anything damaged. If you live in an apartment, not taking care of damages could cost you some, or all, of your security deposit.

If you hung pictures in your home on a drywall surface, the nail holes will need to be patched up. This is relatively easy, and shouldn't take you too long. Get putty from a hardware store and apply it to each hole. Since each hole is so small, it likely won't take very much. When this has set and dried, paint over these areas. The same process should be repeated for any cracks in the drywall.

If there is a large hole in the drywall, then you need to take up more significant surgery. First, it may be a good idea to cut the hole evenly, so that it is cleaned up, and won't keep coming apart during the fix. After this, take a drywall hole cover and fit it over the hole. Ensure that the cover is flush with the wall, as this will ensure it lasts. After this, spread putty carefully over the area and let dry. When it is completed, paint over the area.

Sometimes carpeting can be torn up, as well. If the damage is minor, you should be able to use a strong adhesive to re-attach it, and it will not be noticeable. However, if this is not the case, you may have to cut your losses, unless finding someone to fix it will be less expensive than taking it out of your security deposit.

Taking measures to fix what you leave behind will not only save you money that you can use for your move, but it is also a common courtesy for the next person who will live in the dwelling.