One of the most common disputes between landlords and tenants is what counts as "normal wear and tear" versus damage. Understanding the difference can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Normal wear and tear (landlord CANNOT deduct)
- Minor scuffs or nail holes in walls
- Worn or slightly faded carpet from foot traffic
- Faded paint or minor discoloration
- Minor scratches on hardwood floors
- Loose door handles or hinges from normal use
- Worn caulking around tubs and sinks
- Dusty or slightly dirty blinds
Damage beyond normal wear (landlord CAN deduct)
- Large holes in walls
- Stained or burned carpet
- Broken windows or doors
- Unauthorized paint colors or wallpaper
- Pet damage (stains, scratches, odors)
- Missing fixtures or appliances
- Excessive filth requiring professional cleaning
- Water damage from tenant negligence
Tips to protect your deposit
- Do a move-in inspection — Document everything with photos and written notes. Get your landlord to sign it.
- Do a move-out inspection — Most states give you the right to a pre-move-out walkthrough.
- Clean thoroughly — Clean the unit to the same condition as when you moved in.
- Take timestamped photos — Before and after photos are your best evidence in any dispute.
- Get it in writing — Any agreements about the condition of the unit should be documented.
State-specific rules
Most states follow similar principles, but timelines and remedies vary. California, New York, Massachusetts, and Oregon tend to have the strongest tenant protections for security deposits.