Short answer:
It means the normal, gradual deterioration of a property caused by everyday use over time — not damage, neglect, or misuse.
The term is deliberately flexible.
That’s why it causes disputes.
Why the phrase is so unclear
“Reasonable wear and tear” is not precisely defined in law.
Instead, it is assessed case by case, based on what a reasonable person would expect after normal use.
This allows fairness across different situations, but it also creates uncertainty.
What counts as reasonable wear and tear
Examples usually include:
- Faded paint or wallpaper
- Light scuffs on walls
- Worn carpet in high-traffic areas
- Loose door handles over time
- Minor marks on worktops
These are expected outcomes of someone living in a property.
They are not the tenant’s financial responsibility.
What does
not
count as wear and tear
These are usually classed as damage:
- Large stains or burns on carpets
- Broken fixtures or fittings
- Holes in walls beyond normal fixings
- Missing items
- Damage caused by pets where this was not permitted
Damage is about cause, not appearance.
The factors that matter most
When a dispute is assessed, four things are usually considered together:
1. Length of tenancy
The longer someone lives in a property, the more wear is expected.
2. Quality and age of items
Cheap or old furnishings are expected to wear out faster than new, high-quality ones.
3. Number and type of occupants
A family will reasonably cause more wear than a single occupant.
4. Evidence at check-in and check-out
Inventory reports and photographs matter more than opinions.
Disputes are resolved on documentation, not intent.
Why this often leads to disagreement
Landlords may expect a property to be returned in near-original condition.
Tenants may assume all deterioration is acceptable.
The system sits between these expectations.
The phrase exists to balance:
- Fair use
- Asset protection
- Real-world living
How disputes are actually resolved
Most disputes are not decided in court.
They are handled through:
- Deposit protection schemes
- Independent adjudicators
- Written evidence and photographs
The process is procedural, not personal.
The practical takeaway
“Reasonable wear and tear” is judged on:
- Time
- Use
- Quality
- Evidence
Not on whether the property looks perfect.
Understanding this helps both tenants and landlords set realistic expectations.
One simple next step
If you’re renting or letting a property:
Check the inventory report and photos from the start of the tenancy.
That single document carries the most weight if a dispute arises.
The rule exists to allow homes to be lived in, not preserved.
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