What Is Considered Normal Wear in Rental Properties?

Ever wondered how to distinguish between normal wear and tear and actual damage in your rental property? The truth is, as your property ages, it's inevitable that some signs of wear will show up.

But how can you tell whether it's just the natural process of a home being lived in—or something that requires a tenant's responsibility?

The Drew Doheny Property Management Team explains that over time, rental properties naturally experience wear and tear. These minor signs of use aren’t the tenant's fault—they're simply part of the life cycle of a home.

However, it’s crucial for landlords and tenants to know the difference between normal wear and tear and actual damage, so that the right party is held accountable for repairs.

This guide will help you understand what qualifies as "normal" wear and tear and how to handle repairs and security deposit deductions fairly. Let’s dive in and clarify these essential distinctions.

Defining Wear and Tear

Each state will differ in what is strictly normal wear and tear but the differences are slight. In general, normal wear and tear focuses on the diminished property and fixture values due to prolonged use or occupancy of a rental unit.

Whatever your rental space structure is, a property deteriorates in common areas, such as tile floors.

You cannot expect it to look new when it has been occupied for five years by several tenants. There will be scratches and dullness signifying daily usage by residents.

With renters occupying your property, the decline of the unit continues. The longer a tenant stays, the more wear and tear shows up from faded wallpaper, dull wall paint, scratched floors, and more.

Defining Property Damage

Property damage refers to the unexpected loss of value or functionality of part of a property, typically resulting from factors like abuse or neglect.
Unlike normal wear and tear, property damage stems from actions that go beyond everyday use and maintenance.

The source of damage can often be traced to either the landlord’s failure to address maintenance issues or the tenant’s improper use of the property.

For example, holes in the walls are not a natural consequence of regular living. While accidents do happen, such damage can also be the result of intentional actions or neglect.

Examples of normal wear and tear:

Faded or cracked wall paint.
Peeled-off or torn wallpaper.
Dull floors that need a new coat of varnish.
Sticky doors.
Cracked window panes caused by foundation issues.
Faded carpet.
Worn enamel from sinks or old toilets.
Loose tile grouting.

Identifying Unexpected Damage

Unexpected damage deteriorates properties and this is avoidable. It is beyond the normal wear and tear. Causes can include accidents, neglect, and intentional damage.

Examples of Unexpected Damage:

Unapproved wallpaper.
Carpet stains or burns.
Chipped floors.
The door is off its hinges.
Massive holes or window cracks.
Chipped bathtub or sink enamel.
Clogged toilet due to misuse.

As mentioned earlier, property damage is not always the tenant’s fault. In some cases, landlords may fail in their responsibilities. Even if a tenant has reported a maintenance issue multiple times and requested repairs, a landlord can still be negligent in addressing those concerns.

Here are some examples:

Unmaintained pipes that caused damage.
Bad housing design without repair plans.
Cracked ceilings and sloping floors that are ignored.

Landlords have a duty to keep their rental homes livable for tenants under state laws.

You must maintain a clean and habitable unit that’s also safe. You are expected to comply with state and local building and health codes as a property owner.

Deducting Repair Costs From Security Deposits

Landlords cannot automatically deduct from a tenant’s security deposit for all types of property damage. They must first determine whether the damage is the result of normal wear and tear or unexpected harm.

It's crucial that landlords can distinguish between the two. Only damage that falls outside the scope of normal wear and tear can be deducted from a tenant’s deposit.

Misidentifying the nature of the damage can lead to significant conflicts between landlords and tenants. In some cases, tenants may even pursue legal action to challenge charges for damage that they believe falls within the bounds of normal wear and tear.

Documenting Property Damage

Landlords should document any damage in their rental properties with photos and videos during both move-in and move-out inspections.

A walkthrough with the tenant before move-in helps clarify what constitutes normal wear and tear versus unexpected damage. This documentation provides clear evidence of the property's condition, making it easier to assign repair costs and reducing conflicts over security deposit deductions.

If deductions are necessary, provide a detailed list of damaged items and repair costs, ensuring transparency and helping tenants understand any charges for repairs beyond normal wear and tear.

Tenant Screening as Property Damage Prevention

A thorough tenant screening process is key to minimizing property damage beyond normal wear and tear in your rental.

By establishing clear, comprehensive criteria for selecting tenants, you can choose individuals who are more likely to maintain your property responsibly.

Review each candidate’s rental history to check for any past evictions and the reasons behind them. This can provide valuable insight into their behavior as tenants.

Effective tenant screening helps reduce the risk of property damage by selecting renters who are likely to follow property policies, pay rent on time, and treat the rental space with care.

Bottom Line

Understanding what qualifies as "normal wear and tear" is essential for both landlords and tenants to ensure fair expectations and smooth rental relationships.

By clearly distinguishing between everyday use and actual damage, documenting property conditions, and selecting responsible tenants, you can protect your property and avoid disputes over security deposits.

If you need expert guidance on managing your rental property and navigating issues related to wear and tear, the Drew Doheny Property Management Team is here to assist.