Normal Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear means expected rental-unit deterioration from ordinary use, distinct from resident damage beyond routine turnover.
Definition
Normal wear and tear is the expected deterioration that happens when a rental home is used respectfully and for its intended purpose. In multifamily operations, it commonly includes items like faded paint, small nail holes, worn carpet from walking, loose grout, or fixtures that have aged through ordinary use. It is different from resident-caused damage, which usually involves abuse, negligence, or repairs beyond routine turnover work.
Example
During a move-out inspection, the team notes faded wall paint, small picture-hanging holes, and carpet worn thin in the main walkway. Those items are treated as normal wear and tear during the unit turn, while a broken interior door or large carpet stain may be reviewed separately as potential resident damage.
Why It Matters?
Clear standards for normal wear and tear help operations leaders make consistent move-out decisions, create fair resident chargebacks, and reduce disputes over security deposits. They also improve turn planning by separating routine make-ready costs from repairs that may be billed back because they exceed ordinary use.
