Short answer: end of lease painting is touch-up and repaint work done before you hand back a rental, so walls match the ingoing condition report and bond claims are avoided. In NSW, tenants are generally not responsible for fair wear and tear (normal ageing such as light fading or minor scuffs), but they can be asked to fix damage they caused, such as large marks, holes from unapproved hooks or crayon on walls.
This guide explains what to check, how the process works and when it makes sense to call a licensed painter.
Fair wear and tear vs damage: what do tenants have to fix?
| Usually fair wear and tear | Usually tenant damage |
|---|---|
| Paint fading from sunlight | Large scuffs, marks or crayon on walls |
| Minor scuffs in hallways from normal use | Holes from nails, screws or hooks not approved by the landlord |
| Hairline cracks from building movement | Wall damage from moving furniture |
| Light marks behind furniture | Unapproved paint colours or patchy DIY touch-ups |
| Paint worn from normal cleaning | Smoke or grease staining beyond normal living |
How does end of lease painting work?
- Compare against the ingoing condition report. Walk through every room with the report and photos taken when you moved in.
- List the problem areas. Note marks, holes, scuffs and stains room by room.
- Find the original colour and sheen. Ask the agent or landlord for the paint brand, colour and finish. Spot-painting with the wrong sheen leaves visible patches.
- Repair before painting. Fill holes, sand flush and spot-prime repairs so they do not flash through the top coat.
- Paint full walls where needed. Touch-ups often show; painting the whole wall corner to corner gives an even finish.
- Book it early. Allow time for paint to dry before the final inspection and the cleaners.
How much does end of lease painting cost in Sydney?
It depends on how many walls need work. Independent Sydney cost guides list a single room (walls and ceiling) at about $300–$1,000, a ceiling at $200–$500 per room and a feature wall at $150–$500 (What’s The Damage, Nov 2026). Patch-and-touch-up jobs are often well below a full repaint. Compare that with the amount at risk from your bond.
Tips for landlords and property managers
- Record the paint brand, colour and sheen for every room in the condition report.
- Use a washable low-sheen paint in living areas and hallways to reduce future touch-ups.
- Repaint between tenancies when walls are tired; it can help a property lease faster.
- Book painting straight after the outgoing inspection to reduce vacant days.
Why use a licensed painter for end of lease work?
A licensed painter matches colour and sheen, repairs plaster properly and finishes on a fixed date. Affordable Painters Sydney provides end of lease painting and wall repairs and plaster patching across Sydney, with fixed, itemised quotes and no hourly billing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to repaint when I move out of a rental in NSW?
Not usually for fair wear and tear. You may need to repair damage you caused, such as large marks or holes from unapproved hooks, so the walls match the ingoing condition report.
Can my landlord take my bond for painting?
A landlord can claim reasonable costs for damage beyond fair wear and tear. If you disagree with a claim, you can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). Good photos and the condition report are your best evidence.
How long does end of lease painting take?
Small touch-ups can take a few hours; a full apartment repaint usually takes a few days, plus drying time. Book before the final inspection and the cleaners.
Can I just touch up marks myself?
You can, but touch-ups often show if the colour or sheen does not match exactly. Painting the whole wall usually gives a more even finish.
Do you paint for property managers and landlords?
Yes. We repaint between tenancies across Sydney and can work with agents to access the property and finish before the next lease starts.
Get a free, fixed and itemised quote: call 0432 169 277 or request a quote online. Affordable Painters Sydney is NSW licensed (Licence 497962C), carries $20 million public liability insurance and has completed 1,200+ jobs across Sydney over 15+ years.