What is wear and tear?

Wear and tear refers to the normal, gradual deterioration a property experiences from everyday living - things like lightly worn carpets, faded paint, or minor scuffs on floors. Landlords legally cannot deduct deposit money for fair wear and tear, only for genuine damage or excessive dirtiness beyond normal use.

Why the distinction matters: this is one of the most common sources of deposit disputes at the end of a tenancy. "Damage" (a burn mark, a broken fixture, deep staining) is deductible; "wear and tear" (faded curtains after 2 years, slightly worn carpet in high-traffic areas) generally isn't.

How to protect yourself: a thorough move-in inventory with dated photos is your strongest evidence if a landlord tries to charge for normal wear and tear at move-out. If you disagree with a deduction, you can dispute it through your deposit protection scheme's free resolution service.

Cleaning vs wear and tear: excessive dirtiness can be deducted; a clause forcing you to hire a professional cleaner usually cannot. Full detail: can my landlord charge me for cleaning.

Contents insurance typically doesn't cover wear and tear either - only theft, fire, and accidental damage to your own belongings. Full detail: do you need renters insurance.