Fair wear and tear vs damage: a guide for Australian renters

The basic test

Fair wear and tear is what happens to a property when people live in it normally and time passes. Damage is harm beyond that, caused by an accident, carelessness or misuse. Renters are generally not responsible for fair wear and tear but can be responsible for damage.

Usually fair wear and tear

These typically come from normal living:

• Faded paint or curtains from sunlight
• Worn carpet in hallways and doorways
• Minor scuffs where furniture sat against walls
• Loose door handles or hinges from normal use
• Small cracks in plaster from building movement
• Worn grout or dull benchtops from ordinary cleaning

Usually damage

These typically go beyond normal use:

• Large holes in walls, or many picture hooks added without permission
• Burns, pet stains or large spills on carpet
• Broken windows, doors or tiles
• Unapproved paint colours or crayon on walls
• Deep scratches or water damage to floors
• Gardens left overgrown when the lease required upkeep

Grey areas

The age of an item matters. Carpet near the end of its life may be worn through even with care, so a landlord usually cannot claim the full cost of new carpet. Tribunals consider age, quality and expected life. Your state's tenancy authority publishes guidance with examples.

Protect yourself

Keep your entry condition report, take photos on moving in and out, report problems promptly in writing, and get the landlord's written permission before changes. Arrange repairs for damage you caused with a suitable tradie and keep the invoice.