Sometimes it is difficult to ascertain, what constitutes normal “wear and tear” and what is actually, willful neglect by the tenant.
There is currently, no legislation that directly lists specific examples.
The following list from RealRenta, may help explain the differences:
Fair wear and tear where the landlord is liable:
- Carpet wear in frequently used areas
- Locks breaking because of age
- Curtains fading from age
- Paint flaking from age
Neglectful damage where tenant is liable:
- Stains/burns from items dropped or placed on benchtops/floor coverings
- Mould that has formed due to unhygienic practices
- Tenant losing keys and breaking locks to gain access
- Tenant’s pets rips curtains/screens etc
If a tenant vacates your property and floor/window coverings are damaged/stained AND if they are over 7 years old, it can be argued that the item no longer has any value, as it has reached its’ full depreciable value.
RealRenta Landlords have the added advantage of time and date stamped interactions.
RealRenta Tenants can submit all maintenance requests via the Platform and upload all necessary photos and documentation.
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