Chargeable vs Non-Chargeable Tenant Damages: Complete Checklist
Understanding the difference between normal wear and tear and tenant damage is crucial for both landlords and tenants. This guide provides a comprehensive checklist to determine what can legally be deducted from a security deposit.
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
What is Normal Wear and Tear?
Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration that happens through everyday use of a rental property. Landlords cannot charge tenants for these conditions.
- Faded paint or wallpaper from sunlight
- Minor scuff marks on walls from furniture
- Worn carpet in high-traffic areas
- Loose door handles from regular use
- Faded or aging window treatments
- Minor scratches on hardwood floors
- Slightly dirty grout in bathrooms
- Worn finish on kitchen appliances
Chargeable Tenant Damages
Landlords can deduct from the security deposit for damage beyond normal use. These conditions result from negligence, abuse, or accidents.
- Large holes in walls (beyond small nail holes)
- Broken windows or door glass
- Stained or burned carpet
- Pet damage (scratches, stains, odors)
- Unauthorized paint colors
- Missing or broken fixtures
- Deep scratches or gouges in flooring
- Water damage from negligence
- Smoke damage or heavy nicotine stains
- Broken blinds or window treatments
Room-by-Room Checklist
Use this checklist during move-in and move-out inspections to document the property condition.
- Living Room: Walls, flooring, windows, light fixtures
- Kitchen: Appliances, countertops, cabinets, sink
- Bathroom: Toilet, tub/shower, vanity, tiles
- Bedroom: Closet doors, flooring, walls, windows
- Exterior: Lawn, landscaping, parking area, entry
- General: Doors, locks, smoke detectors, HVAC filters
- Document with dated photos for each area
How Landlords Should Document Damages
Proper documentation protects landlords from disputes and strengthens their position if challenged.
- Conduct thorough move-in inspection with tenant present
- Take timestamped photos of every room
- Have tenant sign the move-in checklist
- Keep records of property age and condition
- Document any repairs made during tenancy
- Conduct move-out walk-through with tenant
- Get written acknowledgment of damages
- Keep repair receipts and contractor invoices
Calculating Depreciation
Landlords can only charge for the remaining useful life of damaged items, not the full replacement cost.
- Carpet: 5-10 year lifespan
- Interior paint: 3-5 years
- Appliances: 10-15 years
- Window treatments: 3-5 years
- Flooring: 10-20 years depending on type
- Calculate: (Remaining Life / Total Life) x Replacement Cost
- Keep records of when items were last replaced
- Pro-rate charges based on actual depreciation
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculate Your Security Deposit Return
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