Fair wear and tear is gradual deterioration through normal use � fading paintwork, carpet pile flattening, minor scuffs on floors. Landlords cannot charge tenants for it. Damage goes beyond reasonable use: burns, large holes, pet staining, destroyed fixtures.
The betterment principle
Deposit scheme adjudicators deduct for betterment � you cannot claim the full cost of a new item if the old one was already worn. A five-year-old carpet damaged after five years typically attracts 50% of replacement cost.
How adjudicators decide
TDS, DPS, and mydeposits adjudicators assess three things: (1) condition at check-in from the inventory, (2) condition at check-out from the report with photographs, and (3) tenancy length. A six-month tenancy is held to a higher return standard than a five-year tenancy.
Adjudicator lifespan standards
- Redecorating expected every 3�5 years regardless of tenant (paintwork has a lifespan)
- Carpet replacement expected every 7�10 years
- Mattress replacement expected every 7�8 years
- Kitchen unit wear allowed for tenancies over 3 years
How to protect your claim
Use a detailed check-in inventory with timestamped photographs signed by the tenant on day one. Commission a professional check-out report at tenancy end. Raise deduction claims within 10 days. Use the deposit scheme's ADR service for disputes � courts are rarely more favourable.