What Is the Difference Between Normal Wear and Tear and Damage in a Rental Lease Agreement?

As a landlord, you expect your rental units to sustain a certain amount of wear and tear during the term of a lease. But there is a fine line between normal wear and tear and actual damage to a dwelling.

Normal wear and tear. Even the most conscientious tenant will cause some minor damage over the course of a rental agreement. This minimal damage is typically referred to as "normal wear and tear." This can include small scratches on the walls or paint, worn or slightly stained carpeting, broken hinges, or other insignificant damage.

While you may not appreciate having to repaint your property after each tenant moves out, normal wear and tear usually makes this necessary. And a few scuffs on the wall or the odd nail hole does not constitute damage, and you will not be able to charge your tenants for this paint job if that is the extent of the damage.