Tenant Damage: What It Is, How It’s Defined, and How to Fix It

When a tenant moves out, tenant damage, physical harm to a rental property beyond normal use that reduces its value or requires repair. Also known as beyond wear and tear, it’s the line between a clean handover and a deposit dispute. Most landlords and tenants don’t agree on what counts as damage—until the deposit is withheld. The difference between wear and tear, expected deterioration from everyday living, like faded curtains or scuffed floorboards and actual tenant damage, unauthorized or negligent harm like large holes in walls, burnt carpets, or broken windows can cost hundreds—or thousands—of pounds.

Think about it: a few scuffs on the kitchen tiles? That’s wear and tear. A deep scratch from dragging a heavy fridge across them? That’s damage. A stained mattress from spilled wine? Normal. Urine soaked into the foam from a pet left untrained? That’s damage. Tenant damage isn’t just about mess—it’s about cost. It’s what forces a landlord to hire a professional cleaner, replace flooring, repaint entire rooms, or even fix structural issues. And if you’re a tenant, it’s what can get your deposit slashed. The UK’s tenancy laws don’t give landlords the right to charge for aging. But they do let them recover costs for damage caused by neglect or misuse. That’s why end-of-tenancy cleaning isn’t just about wiping surfaces—it’s about proving the property was returned in good condition. Many of the cleaning tasks we see—removing stubborn stains from carpets, stripping grease from ovens, eliminating odours from upholstery—aren’t about routine cleaning. They’re about undoing damage.

What’s missing from most tenant-landlord conversations? A clear checklist. Without one, it’s easy to argue over what’s fair. That’s why we’ve seen hundreds of cases where a simple photo log taken at move-in and move-out prevents 90% of disputes. It’s not about being suspicious—it’s about being smart. And when damage has already happened, knowing the right products and methods matters. Vinegar won’t fix a burnt hob. Baking soda won’t lift pet urine from a mattress. You need the right tools, the right timing, and the right expertise. Below, you’ll find real guides from professionals who’ve cleaned up after everything from messy students to neglected pets. From how to remove deep stains to what actually kills odours for good, these posts give you the facts—not guesses—on how to handle it right the first time.