When it comes to moving out of a rental, one of the most common sources of confusion is the difference between normal wear and tear and damage.
Understanding this distinction, and using RentCheck to document your property’s condition at move-in and move-out, helps renters to avoid deposit disputes and gives property managers a fair, transparent standard to work from.
Defining Normal Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear refers to the natural deterioration that occurs as a property is lived in over time. It’s the expected result of everyday use - not neglect, abuse, or accidents.
Property managers anticipate some level of wear, and it’s usually factored into maintenance budgets. These normal signs of use should not be deducted from your security deposit, unless your lease specifically states otherwise - so it’s always a good idea to review your lease and local laws for clarity.
Examples of Normal Wear and Tear
Walls & Paint
Small nail holes from hanging pictures (unless stated explicitly in the lease)
Minor scuffs, light marks or peeling paint/wallpaper
Fading paint from sunlight
Loose or dirty grouting
Flooring
Carpet wear in high-traffic areas
Slight fading or flattening of carpet fibers
Minor scratches or dulling of hardwood floors
Fixtures & Appliances
Loose door handles or cabinet knobs
Minor wear on stovetops or counters
Reduced appliance efficiency due to age
Other Signs
Worn weatherstripping
Slightly loose hinges
Faded blinds or curtains from sunlight
These are all part of a property’s normal aging process.
🔍Tip: When completing a RentCheck Move-out Inspection, these items are typically marked as “Good” or “Fair”. If you mark something as “Good” but notice minor wear, you can always add a note to provide context for your property manager.
What Is Considered Damage?
Damage goes beyond normal wear. It’s the result of misuse, neglect, or accidents, and is generally chargeable to the tenant.
Examples include:
Large holes or dents in walls
Broken windows or doors
Stains, burns, or tears in the carpet
Missing fixtures or appliances
Water damage from negligence
Excessive pet damage (scratches, urine stains)
Why the Distinction Matters
The difference between wear and damage matters because it determines whether repairs are a landlord's responsibility or a resident's charge.
Landlords are responsible for maintaining a safe, habitable property and covering normal wear.
Residents are responsible for returning the property in good condition, minus the expected everyday use.
Clear guidelines reduce disputes and help both sides protect their interests.
Tips for Renters
Document the property’s condition during move-in and move-out inspections using RentCheck
Report issues promptly to prevent small problems from turning into damage. See here for how to report maintenance issues
Use products and cleaning methods appropriate for the property’s surfaces.
Ask your property manager for a wear and tear guide at move-in
Tips for Property Managers
Provide tenants with a wear-and-tear guide upfront.
Use consistent inspection checklists to maintain fairness.
Budget for routine maintenance so you’re not relying on tenant deposits to cover expected upkeep.