General wear and tear is the gradual deterioration of a property that occurs over time due to normal use. This can include things like faded paint, scratched floors, and chipped tiles. While landlords are not responsible for repairs or replacements caused by general wear and tear, tenants may be responsible for damage caused by their negligence or carelessness.
Here are some examples of what counts as general wear and tear:
- Faded paint: Paint will fade over time, even if it is regularly cleaned and maintained. This is considered general wear and tear and is not the responsibility of the landlord.
- Scratched floors: Floors will scratch over time, especially if there are pets or children in the home. This is also considered general wear and tear and is not the responsibility of the landlord.
- Chipped tiles: Tiles can chip if they are dropped or hit with a hard object. This is considered general wear and tear and is not the responsibility of the landlord.
- Worn carpets: Carpets will wear over time, especially if they are walked on frequently. This is considered general wear and tear and is not the responsibility of the landlord.
- Holes in walls: Holes in walls can be caused by nails, screws, or other sharp objects. If the holes are small and can be patched easily, they are considered general wear and tear and are not the responsibility of the landlord. However, if the holes are large or cannot be easily patched, they may be considered damaged and the tenant may be responsible for repairing them.
- Stains on carpets and upholstery: Stains on carpets and upholstery can be caused by food, drinks, pets, or other accidents. If the stains are small and can be removed easily, they are considered general wear and tear and are not the responsibility of the landlord. However, if the stains are large or cannot be easily removed, they may be considered damage and the tenant may be responsible for repairing them.
- Loose doorknobs and hinges: Loose doorknobs and hinges can be caused by normal wear and tear. If they are not causing any problems, they do not need to be repaired. However, if they are causing problems, the tenant should contact the landlord to have them repaired.
- Broken light bulbs: Broken light bulbs are considered general wear and tear and are not the responsibility of the landlord. The tenant is responsible for replacing them.
- Clogged drains: Clogged drains can be caused by hair, food, or other debris. If the drain is clogged, the tenant should try to unclog it themselves. If they are unable to unclog it, they should contact the landlord.
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of what counts as general wear and tear. If you are unsure whether or not something is considered general wear and tear, you should contact your landlord.
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