Dayton rental properties are undoubtedly going to have that lived-in look. Tenants are coming and going, and deterioration is normal, no matter who is living in the house. As the property owner, you should expect a normal amount of wear and tear caused by age and occupancy.
It’s not always clear what wear and tear looks like, and how it differs from tenant damage.
But it’s important to understand and see the distinction because as the property owner, you bear the financial responsibility of any repairs that remedy wear and tear issues. It’s part of maintaining your home.
Here’s what you need to know about wear and tear and how to identify it.
Wear and Tear in Dayton Rental Homes: Definition and Examples
Wear and tear is the naturally occurring deterioration that happens at all properties. It doesn’t matter who is living there – homes are going to show signs of being used.
Here are some easy-to-identify wear and tear issues:
- Worn carpet in high-traffic areas
- Faded or chipped paint on your walls
- Small holes from where pictures were hung
- Scuff marks on walls and floors from furniture
- Chipped caulking and mold or mildew between tiles
Tenants aren’t required to pay for these things.
Unfortunately, there can be some minor disputes about how to define wear and tear. Tenants are likely to think everything is wear and tear, even if it wanders into the category of damage. The subjective nature of this topic illustrates the importance of clear communication, direct expectations in the lease agreement, and documented move-in and move-out inspections.
How is Dayton Tenant Damage Different from Wear and Tear?
Tenant damage is different and goes beyond wear and tear. It’s also not a property owner’s financial responsibility.
Damage is usually the result of property abuse, misuse, or neglect. Sometimes it’s accidental, but it’s still damage.
Examples of tenant damage would be large holes in the wall or broken doors. Large stains on the floor could be considered damage, and if a carpet is torn or a window is broken, you can charge the security deposit for these things.
Dayton Security Deposits and Wear and Tear
Wear and tear items are a landlord’s responsibility, but the damage caused by the tenant can be paid for out of the security deposit.
Even if a resident broke something unintentionally, it’s still that resident’s responsibility. When you inspect the property and notice damage beyond the normal wear and tear or any problems that are due to the tenant’s actions, you can turn to the security deposit.
But, the wear and tear items that are part of every property turnover will be yours to pay for.
Documenting Dayton Rental Property Condition
Normal wear and tear can usually be separated from tenant damage by looking at your move-in inspection report and comparing it to your move-out inspection report. You will want to have pictures of everything, and if a tenant tries to dispute a charge for damage, you can provide the picture or the video that shows why you made the deduction. Usually, this resolves the issue.
If you want to be sure you’re correct about the wear and tear at your rental property, please contact us at ManCo Property Services. We’re a great resource for Dayton, Ohio property management.
