Here is a list of things that are generally considered to be normal wear-and-tear which cannot, according to security deposit laws, be deducted from a security deposit: Faded paint or wallpaper due to sunlight; Broken plumbing caused by normal use; Dirty blinds and curtains; Rug wear caused by normal use; Furniture marks in carpet There’s no set definition for what normal wear and tear is, and it varies by state. Below are examples of both normal wear and tear and damage. Under California law, a landlord must return the renter’s security deposit, with an itemized statement of deductions, within 21 days after the renter has surrendered the rental property to the landlord (that is, … Our comprehensive guide has everything landlords and tenants need to know about normal wear and tear. Wear and Tear, According to HUD. Normal Wear And Tear Vs Damage It’s essential for you to be able to recognize the difference between normal wear and tear and property damage. Normal wear and tear is defined as moderate scuffs, marks, nicks, light stains or spotting. It’s hard to determine what is considered normal wear and tear vs damage, but wise landlords soon learn the difference to avoid tenant disputes while … However, landlords cannot charge a tenant for routine cleaning inside the unit or for normal wear and tear. While you will have to have the issues repaired regardless of how it can be classified, the decision about who pays for the repairs will depend on the classification. Do some research into your state laws to see if you can gain some clarity there. What is normal wear & tear and how are security deposits affected by it in the state of California? Most often disputes between landlords and tenants arise when it is time for the tenant to move-out. Yes, that’s still vague. Under California Civil Code 1950.5 (e), a landlord may collect money from the tenant if the tenant defaces, impairs, damages, or destroys the property inside the rental unit. Are carpet stains normal wear and tear? Typically, normal wear and tear refers to the expected deterioration that happens over time. The definition of normal wear and tear may seem subjective, but understanding exactly what is considered normal wear and tear from a legal standpoint will help you avoid small claims court. The statutes do not specifically provide a definition but generally, it is deterioration that occurs naturally as a result of the tenant using the property as it’s designed to be used without fault or negligence from the tenant. Normal wear and tear in California is defined as a matter of case law or practice. Examples of normal wear and tear might include: A couple of small stains on a carpet; A couple of scrapes or dings in a wood floor However, landlords cannot deduct to repair normal wear and tear, or the normal depreciation of a property. Normal wear and tear is the expected decline in the condition of a property due to normal everyday use. 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