Renter guide
What Counts as Normal Wear and Tear?
One of the most common deposit disputes comes down to a single question: is this wear and tear, or actual damage? Landlords frequently charge for things that are simply the result of living in a home — and most states say they can't.
The general rule
Normal wear and tearis the gradual deterioration that happens from ordinary, day-to-day use of a rental unit. It is not the tenant's fault and cannot legally be deducted from the security deposit in most states.
Damage, by contrast, is deterioration caused by negligence, carelessness, abuse, or misuse — beyond what a reasonable tenant would cause through regular living.
Wear and tear vs. damage
| Normal wear & tear | Tenant damage |
|---|---|
| Minor scuffs on hardwood floors | Deep gouges or scratches from dragged furniture |
| Small nail holes from hanging pictures | Large anchored holes or wall-mounted TV damage |
| Faded or slightly discolored paint | Unapproved paint colors or crayon/marker marks |
| Worn carpet in high-traffic areas | Large stains, burns, or pet damage in carpet |
| Loose door handles from regular use | Broken door frame or missing hardware |
| Light dust on blinds or fixtures | Caked grease on kitchen surfaces or mold |
| Minor settling cracks near windows | Holes in walls or broken window glass |
Length of tenancy matters
The longer you lived in a unit, the more wear is expected. A carpet that looks worn after 5 years of use is not damage — it has reached the end of its useful life. Many industry guidelines give carpet a useful life of 5–7 years, interior paint 3–5 years, and appliances 8–12 years.
If your landlord charges you to replace something that was already past its useful life when you moved in, that is a strong argument against the deduction.
What to do if you are charged
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