Normal: Light scratches, minor dulling, occasional squeaks
Excessive: Deep gouges, loose tiles, persistent squeaking, water damage
Normal: Small scuffs, fading in direct sunlight
Excessive: Peeling, bubbling, large faded patches, water stains
Normal: Surface lint, minor indentation from furniture
Excessive: Threadbare areas, permanent stains, odor that lingers after cleaning
Normal: Minor scratches, light wear on upholstery
Excessive: Broken legs, ripped fabric, deep scratches exposing wood
When you hear the term wear and tear is the gradual damage that naturally occurs to a property or item from normal everyday use, it often sounds harmless. But how do you know when it’s crossing the line into “too much”?
Too much wear and tear means the damage has progressed beyond what a reasonable, average occupant would cause over a typical tenancy period. In practical terms, this shows up as:
These signs often translate into higher property depreciation is the reduction in a property's market value caused by age, use, and physical deterioration, which landlords factor into rental pricing and future resale.
Develop a habit of walking through each room at least twice a year - once after the heating season and once after the cooling season. Look for these red flags:
Keeping a maintenance schedule is a calendar that outlines regular inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs to preserve property condition helps you catch these problems before they become expensive fixes.
Surface | Normal Wear Indicators | Excessive Wear Indicators |
---|---|---|
Flooring | Light scratches, minor dulling, occasional squeaks | Deep gouges, loose tiles, persistent squeaking, water damage |
Paint | Small scuffs, fading in direct sunlight | Peeling, bubbling, large faded patches, water stains |
Carpet | Surface lint, minor indentation from furniture | Threadbare areas, permanent stains, odor that lingers after cleaning |
Furniture | Minor scratches, light wear on upholstery | Broken legs, ripped fabric, deep scratches exposing wood |
Stopping wear before it becomes excessive saves time and money. Try these simple habits:
Even with the best care, some wear is inevitable. That’s why most rental contracts include a lease agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, including condition standards. Knowing what the agreement deems “acceptable” helps you avoid disputes when moving out.
Not every sign of wear can be fixed with a DIY approach. Consider professional help when you encounter:
Professional services often come with insurance coverage, which can be important if the damage escalates to a claim. Your insurance is a contract that provides financial protection against loss or damage to property policy may require documented evidence of maintenance before accepting a payout.
Following this checklist reduces the chance of a surprise deduction from your security deposit.
Normal wear appears as minor, uniform wear that can be expected after a typical tenancy (e.g., light carpet wear, small paint scuffs). Damage is anything that requires repair beyond simple cleaning, such as holes, deep scratches, or water stains.
Yes, if the wear exceeds the limits defined in the lease agreement, landlords can deduct repair costs from the security deposit or issue a separate invoice. Documentation and photos are essential.
High‑traffic areas usually need a fresh coat every 5-7 years, while low‑traffic rooms can last 10 years or more with proper cleaning.
Only if the carpet’s expected lifespan (typically 8-10 years for residential use) has been reached. Otherwise, threadbare spots are classified as excessive wear.
For most homes, a deep clean of carpets and upholstery once a year, plus a floor polishing every 2-3 years, keeps wear within normal limits.
Mar, 10 2025
Apr, 4 2025