When renting out a property, landlords and tenants often find themselves discussing the concept of ‘normal wear and tear.’ Understanding what constitutes normal wear and tear versus actual damage is essential to avoid disputes and ensure a smooth rental experience. In this guide, we'll break down what is considered normal wear and tear, how it differs from damage, the responsibilities of tenants and landlords, plus how a digital guidebook can streamline the communication process for both parties. Read on to discover:
- Understanding normal wear and tear
- Tenant vs. landlord responsibilities
- Common examples of wear and tear
- Move-in and move-out inspections
- Handling disputes over wear and tear
- Tips for both tenants and landlords
- Final thoughts
Understanding normal wear and tear
What is normal wear and tear?
Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration of a rental property due to everyday use. It happens naturally over time and is not caused by negligence or misuse.
Examples include:
- Faded paint from sunlight exposure
- Loose doorknobs and handles
- Worn-out carpets in high-traffic areas
- Small scuffs or marks on walls
- Minor discolouration of kitchen or bathroom surfaces
It's important to remember that different materials and property features will age at different rates. For example, a vinyl floor may show wear sooner than hardwood, and painted walls in direct sunlight will fade faster. Understanding these nuances can help both parties set realistic expectations.
What is considered damage?
Unlike normal wear and tear, damage occurs due to sudden, accidental, or intentional harm to the property. It is beyond the scope of regular use and may require costly repairs.
Examples include:
- Large holes or deep scratches on walls
- Broken windows or shattered glass
- Burns, large stains, or tears in carpets
- Missing or broken door handles and fixtures
- Cracked or smashed tiles
Intentional damage, often referred to as vandalism, is a serious issue that can lead to legal consequences. Additionally, failure to report accidental damage may also result in higher costs for repairs.
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Tenant vs. landlord responsibilities
Maintaining a rental property is a shared responsibility between the tenant and the landlord. While tenants must take reasonable care of the property, landlords must ensure it remains habitable and in good condition.
Tenant responsibilities
Tenants play a crucial role in preserving the rental property by:
- Keeping the property reasonably clean and free from excessive clutter.
- Reporting maintenance issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Avoiding intentional or careless damage to the property.
- Replacing minor items like lightbulbs or air filters when needed.
- Following lease agreements regarding property care and maintenance.
Additional tenant responsibilities may include taking reasonable steps to prevent moisture build-up, such as using ventilation in bathrooms or kitchens, and notifying the landlord of any pest issues.
Landlord responsibilities
Landlords are responsible for ensuring the rental remains safe and habitable by:
- Maintaining the property's structural integrity, including walls, roofs, and flooring.
- Addressing natural wear and tear by repainting, replacing worn-out flooring, and fixing loose fixtures.
- Ensuring appliances and essential systems (such as plumbing and heating) are in working condition.
- Conducting periodic inspections to check on the property’s condition.
In addition to these tasks, landlords must comply with local tenancy laws, providing necessary safety measures such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
Pro landlord tip: check out our guide to rental property hygiene.
Common examples of wear and tear
Normal wear and tear can vary depending on the type of property and duration of the tenancy. Below is a comparison of common wear and tear issues versus actual damage.
| Area | Wear and tear examples | Damage examples |
| Walls | Minor scuffs, faded paint | Large holes, deep scratches |
| Flooring | Worn carpets, faded tiles | Burns, large stains, tears |
| Fixtures and fittings | Loose handles, tarnished taps | Broken doors, missing parts |
| Appliances | Normal ageing, minor rust | Broken glass, malfunctioning |
| Windows and doors | Slightly stiff locks, fading | Broken glass, bent hinges |
| Bathroom and kitchen | Faded worktops, minor grout wear | Missing tiles, deep stains |
For properties with outdoor spaces, such as balconies or gardens, landlords should also account for wear and tear from natural exposure to weather.
Move-in and move-out inspections
Documenting a rental property's condition at the beginning and end of a tenancy helps both landlords and tenants avoid disputes over wear and tear.
Why inspections matter
Move-in and move-out inspections serve several purposes:
- They provide a record of the property's condition before and after the tenancy.
- They protect both landlords and tenants by preventing unjust security deposit deductions.
- They help track natural wear and tear over time.
- They provide clarity for both parties in the event of a legal dispute.
What to include in an inspection
To ensure a thorough inspection, include:
- Photos and videos of each room from multiple angles.
- Detailed written notes describing any existing wear and tear.
- Both parties' signatures on the inspection report for agreement.
- A checklist for specific items like carpets, appliances, and fixtures.
It’s recommended that both landlords and tenants keep copies of the inspection report and any related communication.
Pro tip: discover more with our inspection checklist for rentals (including template!)
Handling disputes over wear and tear
Disagreements over wear and tear deductions from security deposits are common, but they can often be resolved with clear documentation and understanding of tenancy laws.
Tenant rights
Tenants have legal protections when it comes to deposit deductions:
- Landlords must provide evidence that damages exceed normal wear and tear.
- Security deposits cannot be used to cover normal deterioration.
- Official dispute resolution forms, such as RTB-47 or TRAC templates, can be used to challenge unfair deductions.
Tenants in regions like California may also have access to further legal protections and state-specific regulations.
How to respond to unfair charges
If a landlord makes unfair deductions, tenants can:
- Politely dispute the charges in writing, providing inspection reports as evidence.
- Reference local tenancy laws, such as those in California, to support their case.
- Submit a formal request for a full deposit refund.
- If necessary, file an official dispute with a housing tribunal, such as the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Tips for both tenants and landlords
To minimise disputes and maintain a good landlord-tenant relationship, both parties can take proactive steps.
Tenants
- Keep records of all repairs and maintenance requests.
- Take photos and videos at move-in and move-out.
- Clean the property thoroughly before leaving to avoid unnecessary deductions.
- Report maintenance issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
Landlords
- Use durable, cost-effective materials to minimise frequent repairs.
- Conduct regular property inspections to monitor wear and tear.
- Ensure deposit deductions are fair and backed by proper documentation.
- Maintain open communication with tenants to address concerns early.
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Final thoughts
Understanding what qualifies as normal wear and tear is essential for both tenants and landlords. Proper documentation, clear communication, and knowledge of local tenancy laws can help prevent disputes and ensure fair outcomes for everyone involved.
By following best practices, landlords can maintain their properties effectively, while tenants can avoid unnecessary deductions from their security deposits.
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