Picture this, you’retracking your children’s learning and feel happy they’re expressing themselves more artistically at home.
That is, until you discover etchings on your rental’s drywall that look nothing like the Mona Lisa and are sure to get you in trouble with your landlord, and could even cost you your security deposit.
Continue reading below as we’ve outlined everything you need to know about handling wall scribbles in a rental, including a guide to some common wall damage solutions.
Immediate Steps to Take After Discovering Wall Drawings
Assess the Extent of the Marks
After noticing scratches on the wall, the first thing to do is assess the damage.
If you’re a new tenant, it’s essential to determine if the marks are really from your toddlers or remnants of a previous tenant. As a result, identifying the medium, whether it’s a crayon, pencil, or marker, to help you deduce the right answer.
Knowing the medium will also dictate the best approach to clean it, so you also have to check for the paint type. Semi-gloss or satin paint is more durable and has more marks that are easily wipeable, as opposed to a matte finish that’s harder to clean.
With more clarity on the extent of the damage, remember to also document everything.
Ensure you take clear, high-resolution photos of the damage from different angles, as this record could be crucial down the line.
Notify your Property Manager
Most renters’ reflex is to hide the damage, but that will only make it worse if your landlord discovers the truth by themselves.
This means transparency is your best defense in such a situation, and you need to be proactive by informing the property manager or owner. It shows that you’re not trying to hide anything and are open to fixing the situation.
Bay Property Management Group Texas understands that accidents can happen, but it’s also important to communicate them immediately to prevent bigger issues.
Start by describing the damage and its location, also include photos and videos you took. How do you plan to resolve the problem? Clarify that you’re going to attempt cleaning the marks with what chemical or suggest touching up the paint.
Safe and Effective Ways to Remove Wall Scribbles
Use Soapy Water
Go for the easiest solution when trying to wipe off wall scribbles by trying warm soapy water first.
Most pencil and crayon marks come off easily with this simple mix, and all you need is a soft cloth and gentle rubbing to avoid damaging the paint.
You can also add some vinegar to the solution to give it more potency.
However, you also want to avoid using any bleaching soap so it doesn’t change the color of the underlying wall. Remember to also pat the area dry with another towel to prevent water spots from ruining your work.
Use Baking Soda
If you’re dealing with a more stubborn stain, you may need something more abrasive, yet still gentle on your walls. That’s where baking soda comes into the picture. It’s excellent for getting out crayons, pencils, and light scuff marks.
Make sure to do a test swatch first to ensure it comes off your paint easily without damaging it. If it works, you can go ahead by rubbing it into your wall with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge, while making sure to avoid hard scrubbing.
When you’re done, rinse off the paste and pat the area dry.
If these solutions fail, ask your property manager to confirm if the lease allows renters to repaint the walls after cleaning the scribbles.
Simple Ways to Prevent Future Wall Damage
Setting Up Designated Space
If you recently dealt with a recent wall scribble that caused you a lot of stress or want to be proactive about preventing such a scenario, there are a couple of things you can do.
For starters, create a scribble station for your kids so they always have a space to get creative without risking your rental status.
If they’re stuck on vertical scribbles, you can invest in an easy-to-reach whiteboard or create an art wall with a reusable canvas. Of course, when their stationery is not in use under your supervision, you should store it safely.
Use of Removable Wallpaper
Another option is to opt for a removable wallpaper. Instead of cuddling your landlord’s precious dry wall, opt for peel-and-stick wallpaper that protects the wall while reducing the stakes of potential damage.
The best part about this solution is that it’s effective against furniture scratches and accidental food or drink spills as well.
They also come in a variety of designs, so finding one that suits your home and taste won’t be a problem.
Conclusion
Handling wall scribbles in a rental doesn’t have to be stressful.
The first step is assessing the damage and notifying your property manager so everyone is on the same page.
For existing marks, try using soapy water or baking soda to get the stain out and restore the wall without damage.
Taking steps to prevent future damage is just as important, and you can do that by setting up designated drawing spaces and using removable wallpaper.
These options protect your walls while still allowing creativity. By taking these steps, landlords and tenants can maintain clean, well-kept walls and avoid unnecessary conflicts or repair costs.
