Knowing the difference can save you stress, money, and disputes at the end of a tenancy.
One of the most common questions we hear from landlords is: “What counts as fair wear and tear, and what is tenant damage?”. It’s an important distinction, especially when it comes to deposits. Let’s break it down with some real world examples.
What is Wear and Tear?
Wear and tear is the natural ageing of a property through everyday use. No tenant can stop it, and landlords are expected to allow for it.
Examples of wear and tear:
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Carpets thinning in high-traffic areas like hallways.
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Paintwork fading from sunlight.
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Small scuff marks on walls from furniture.
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Appliances gradually wearing out with regular use.
These aren’t the tenant’s responsibility. They’re simply the normal signs of a lived-in home.
What is Damage?
Damage goes beyond everyday use — it’s caused by negligence, misuse, or accidents.
Examples of tenant damage:
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A carpet stained with wine or pet mess.
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A door broken from being slammed repeatedly.
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Burn marks on a kitchen worktop.
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Missing furniture or fixtures supplied with the property.
In these cases, landlords are entitled to make deductions from the tenant’s deposit (as long as it’s properly protected).
Why the Difference Matters
Confusing wear and tear with damage is one of the biggest causes of deposit disputes. Landlords who expect tenants to pay for natural ageing often end up on the losing side. On the other hand, tenants shouldn’t get away with careless damage under the label of “normal use.”
How We Can Help
At Campbells, we help landlords draw the line clearly. Our detailed inventories and mid-tenancy inspections record a property’s condition, so there’s no confusion when tenants move out. That way, landlords are protected and tenants feel treated fairly.
Final Thought
Understanding the difference between wear and tear and genuine damage saves landlords stress, money, and disputes.
If you’d like help setting up clear inventories and inspections, the Campbells lettings crew are always here to guide you, with plain, honest, advice.
