Did you know that nearly half of Australian homeowners have encountered DIY projects that didn’t go as planned, with 43% of these mishaps related to painting and 26% to plumbing? Such endeavours can inadvertently lead to property damage, especially in areas like wardrobes, where improper techniques may cause issues like misaligned doors or structural weaknesses.
In the context of moving out, addressing any damage to built-in wardrobes is crucial. Landlords often scrutinise these fixtures during final inspections, and unresolved issues can result in deductions from your security deposit. In Perth, for instance, cleaning-related disputes accounted for approximately 18.75% of rental disagreements in 2021-22. Ensuring that wardrobes and other fixtures are in good condition can help avoid such conflicts.
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As you approach the end of your lease, there are many aspects of the property that require attention. One area that often gets overlooked is the wardrobe—whether it’s a built-in wardrobe or freestanding cabinet. However, end of lease wardrobe repairs are crucial to ensure you get your full bond back. Small issues like broken hinges, scratched shelves, or misaligned sliding doors can lead to costly repairs and deductions from your bond if not addressed before moving out.
In this blog, we’ll cover common wardrobe-related damage and provide effective solutions to fix these issues, helping you avoid unexpected costs and ensuring your property is in perfect condition for the final inspection.
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1. Why Wardrobes Damage end of lease cleaning Repairs Matter
Wardrobes are one of the most frequently used storage spaces in a home, so wear and tear is inevitable. However, small damages to built-in wardrobes and cabinets, such as broken hinges or scratched shelves, can lead to issues that landlords may consider a significant enough breach to deduct from your bond.
Why Landlords Care About Wardrobe Condition:
- Functional and aesthetic concerns: If wardrobe doors or shelves are broken or misaligned, the property may look unkempt and poorly maintained.
- Repair costs: Landlords may have to replace or repair wardrobe parts like hinges, doors, or shelves, which can be expensive.
- Security and usability: A stuck wardrobe door or broken shelf can make the storage space unusable, which can negatively impact the appeal and functionality of the property.
By addressing these issues before the final inspection, you’ll improve the property’s appearance and ensure that it’s in good condition when you leave, making it more likely that you’ll receive your full bond.
2. Common Wardrobe Issues and Solutions
2.1. Loose or Broken Hinges on Wardrobe Doors
Wardrobe doors that are not functioning properly—whether they’re squeaky, loose, or won’t close all the way—are a common problem in many rental properties. Loose or broken hinges can cause the door to swing open or not align properly, affecting both the functionality and appearance of the wardrobe.
How Loose Hinges Can Affect Your Bond:
- Unstable doors: A wardrobe door that won’t stay closed or is difficult to open can make the room appear neglected and poorly maintained.
- Potential replacement costs: If the hinges are broken beyond repair, your landlord may charge you for the cost of replacing the door or the entire wardrobe mechanism.
Solutions:
- Tighten the hinges: If the hinges are just loose, simply use a screwdriver to tighten the screws. Ensure the door is aligned properly and that it opens and closes smoothly.
- Replace broken hinges: If the hinges are broken, purchase a replacement from a hardware store. If you’re not sure how to replace them, consider hiring a professional handyman to ensure it’s done correctly.
- Lubricate the hinges: If the hinges are squeaky or hard to open, use a lubricant like WD-40 to ensure they work smoothly.
2.2. Scratched or Chipped Shelves
Another common issue in wardrobes is scratched or chipped shelves. Over time, shelves can become scratched from hanging clothes, or they may chip if heavy items were placed on them. These imperfections can be noticeable during the final inspection and may lead to bond deductions if not repaired.
How Scratches and Chips Can Affect Your Bond:
- Aesthetic damage: Scratched or chipped shelves can make the wardrobe look old and poorly maintained.
- Replacement or repair costs: If the damage is extensive, the landlord may charge you for shelf repairs or replacements.
Solutions:
- Repair minor scratches: For minor scratches, you can use wood filler or touch-up paint. Apply the filler to the scratched area, allow it to dry, and then sand it smooth. You can then apply paint or wood stain to match the existing finish.
- Replace damaged shelves: If the shelves are badly chipped or damaged, consider replacing them. Measure the shelf dimensions and purchase replacements at a hardware store or from the landlord if needed. You can also buy shelf liners to hide minor imperfections.
- Repaint the shelves: After repairing any scratches or chips, give the shelves a fresh coat of paint or stain to restore their original look.
2.3. Stuck or Misaligned Sliding Wardrobe Doors
Misaligned or stuck sliding wardrobe doors can be a significant problem for both functionality and aesthetics. A door that doesn’t slide smoothly or is stuck can make the wardrobe difficult to use, and could even damage the track or frame further.
How Misaligned Sliding Doors Can Affect Your Bond:
- Difficulty of use: If the sliding doors don’t function properly, they may appear broken and affect the usability of the wardrobe.
- Costly repairs: If the door or track is misaligned or damaged beyond repair, your landlord may charge you for replacing or fixing the door.
Solutions:
- Check the tracks: The first thing to do is inspect the tracks to ensure they’re free of dust or debris. Clean the tracks with a damp cloth to remove any dirt that might be obstructing the door’s movement.
- Realign the doors: If the door is misaligned, you can usually fix it by adjusting the rollers. Look for the adjustment screws on the top or bottom of the sliding door. Use a screwdriver to realign the door, ensuring it runs smoothly along the track.
- Lubricate the rollers: Use a silicone-based lubricant to grease the rollers and tracks, which will help the door slide smoothly.
- Replace the rollers or track: If the door is still sticking, the rollers or track may be damaged. You can purchase replacement parts from a hardware store and follow the instructions to replace them. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, consider hiring a professional.
Common Cleaning Challenges
Time Constraints: When Life Gets in the Way of Clean
Between juggling work, school drop-offs, errands, and maybe squeezing in a bit of “me-time,” cleaning often ends up on the bottom of the to-do list. Many renters wait until the last week—or even the last day—before tackling the mountain of cleaning tasks required during a move-out. The problem? That kind of rush leads to stress, missed spots, and failed inspections.
Imagine trying to clean an entire house after work in just one evening. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many of our clients in Melbourne and Sydney admit they underestimated the time needed to clean inside wardrobes, under furniture, and behind appliances. The result? They had to call in reinforcements—us—at the last minute.
Difficult-to-Remove Stains: The Sneaky Spots That Cost You Your Bond
Some stains just don’t budge—no matter how hard you scrub. Think makeup smudges on wardrobe mirrors, water damage from forgotten damp clothes, or scuff marks from heavy bags. These hidden or neglected spots are often only discovered during the final inspection, and by then, it’s too late to fix them yourself.
Specialised Cleaning Needs: Not All Surfaces Are Created Equal
Different surfaces require different treatments. Timber wardrobes can’t handle harsh chemicals, while mirrored doors need streak-free solutions. And don’t forget sliding door tracks—they’re magnets for dust and hair. What seems like a simple clean often ends up becoming a complex task when you realise your all-purpose spray isn’t cutting it.
Struggling with stubborn stains? Book a professional cleaning with Dirt2Tidy today!
📞 Call Now: 1300 789 178
🌐 Book Online: https://quote-now.dirt2tidy.com.au/
3. Preventing Wardrobe Damage During Your Tenancy
While it’s important to fix any end of lease wardrobe repairs before moving out, preventing damage during your tenancy can save you time and money when it’s time to move out. Here are some tips for keeping your wardrobes in good condition:
3.1. Handle Doors and Shelves Carefully
- Avoid slamming doors: Be mindful of how you close wardrobe doors to prevent damage to the hinges and frame.
- Don’t overload shelves: Avoid placing heavy items on shelves that could cause them to warp or break. If you need extra storage space, use bins or other storage solutions to keep items organized and prevent stress on the shelves.
3.2. Regular Maintenance
- Tighten loose screws: Check for loose screws or hinges every few months to prevent further damage.
- Keep the tracks clean: For sliding doors, regularly clean the tracks to prevent dirt buildup, which could cause the doors to become misaligned.
4. Why Professional End of Lease Cleaning Services Can Help
If you’re unsure about how to handle end of lease wardrobe repairs yourself, hiring a professional end of lease cleaning service can save you time and hassle. Many cleaning services offer minor repairs and can fix issues like loose hinges, misaligned sliding doors, or chipped shelves. They’ll also ensure that the wardrobe is cleaned thoroughly, so you don’t have to worry about stains, dust, or dirt on the surfaces.
Benefits of Professional Help:
- Expert repairs: Professionals can handle minor wardrobe repairs, ensuring everything is functional and well-maintained for the inspection.
- Comprehensive service: Many end of lease cleaning services also offer detailed inspections of all wardrobes and storage spaces to ensure everything is in top condition before the inspection.
- Bond-back guarantee: Many cleaning companies offer a bond-back guarantee, meaning if the landlord isn’t satisfied with the cleaning or repairs, the company will come back to address any issues at no extra cost.
Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services
Saves Time So You Can Focus on What Matters
Whether you’re relocating across town or just down the street, the last thing you need is to spend hours scrubbing skirting boards or disinfecting inside wardrobes. Professional cleaners take over the entire task, freeing you up to pack, coordinate your move, or simply take a breather. Our team at Dirt2Tidy works swiftly and efficiently, often finishing in half the time it takes a non-professional.
No more late-night vacuuming or panic cleaning the day before handover—just book and relax.
🏡 Creates a Healthier Living Environment
Hidden dust, allergens, and bacteria often lurk in places you wouldn’t expect—like wardrobe corners, air vents, and beneath furniture. A proper professional clean doesn’t just make your home look good—it actually makes it healthier. Our eco-friendly, non-toxic products ensure every surface is safe, especially for families with children or pets.
Fresh air, fewer allergens, and a truly clean start for the next tenants.
✨ Delivers Professional-Grade Results (That Impress Real Estate Agents)
There’s a big difference between a quick clean and a professional one. We’re talking polished floors, streak-free glass, spotless wardrobes, and kitchens that shine. Landlords and property managers know the difference—and they look for it. Dirt2Tidy delivers top-tier results that meet and often exceed real estate inspection standards.
You only get one shot at getting that bond back—make it count.
💚 Why Choose Dirt2Tidy?
At Dirt2Tidy, we don’t just clean—we care. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: Safe for your home, your family, and the environment. Experienced and Trained Staff: Every cleaner is professionally trained, background-checked, and quality-assured. Affordable Pricing: Transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden costs.
From Sydney to Adelaide, Perth to Melbourne, our customers trust Dirt2Tidy to deliver exceptional cleaning services that leave their homes move-out ready.
Experience the Dirt2Tidy difference!
📞 Call Now: 1300 789 178
🌐 Book Online: https://quote-now.dirt2tidy.com.au/
Conclusion: Fix Wardrobe Issues Before the Final Inspection
Addressing end of lease wardrobe repairs like broken hinges, scratched shelves, and misaligned sliding doors is essential to avoid bond deductions and ensure your rental property is returned in optimal condition. Whether you handle the repairs yourself or hire a professional, taking care of these issues will help you leave the property in good shape and improve your chances of receiving your full bond back.
Book your professional cleaning today and make sure your wardrobes are ready for the final inspection!
