Wear and Tear: Who Pays For What At The End of the Lease Term?

At the end of a residential lease term, the responsibility for wear and tear and related costs can vary based on several factors, including the terms of the lease agreement, local laws, and the specific circumstances of the situation. 

Below we unpack some of the most common wear and tear examples, as well as who typically covers the cost to repair or replace them.

The Lease Agreement

The terms of the lease agreement play a crucial role in determining who is responsible for what. Some lease agreements might have specific clauses outlining the responsibilities of both parties regarding repairs and maintenance. Both landlords and tenants must carefully review and understand these clauses before signing the lease.

Local Laws and Regulations

Landlord-tenant laws can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. Some areas have specific regulations that outline the obligations of landlords and tenants regarding wear and tear. These laws may affect how security deposits are handled, how damages are assessed, and other aspects of the end-of-lease process.

Normal Wear and Tear

Landlords are generally responsible for covering the costs associated with normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear typically refers to the gradual deterioration of the property that occurs naturally over time due to regular use and aging. 

This sort of wear and tear can include:

• Minor scuffs or marks on walls 
• Worn or faded carpets or flooring
• Age-related paint peeling or discolouration
• Loose or worn doorknobs
• Faded curtains or blinds (if they belong to the landlord)
• Furniture indentations on carpets
• Aging appliances (if they belong to the landlord)
• Faded or discoloured surfaces
• Other minor signs of use that don't result from negligence or abuse by the tenant

Tenant Damages

Tenants are typically responsible for repairing or paying for damages that go beyond normal wear and tear. These damages are typically the result of negligence, misuse, or abuse of the property by the tenant. 

Examples of tenant damages can include:

• Significant wall holes or damage
• Broken appliances
• Broken windows
• Pet-related damages or odours
• Water damage from negligence
• Stains or burns on carpets
• Unapproved alterations or painting
• Broken tiles or flooring due to neglect
• Other substantial issues that require repair or replacement

The Purpose of Security Deposits

It is common for lease agreements to include a security deposit that tenants put down at the beginning of the lease term. Its purpose is to cover any damages beyond normal wear and tear or any unpaid rent at the end of the lease. 

When the lease ends, the landlord will assess the condition of the property and deduct any necessary repair costs from the security deposit before returning the remaining amount to the tenant. This process is subject to local laws and regulations that might limit the deductions the landlord can make.

Move-In and Move-Out Inspections

Move-in and move-out inspections are essential processes to avoid disputes between landlords and tenants. They document the condition of the property at the beginning and end of the lease term. 

Both parties can use these inspection reports to determine whether any damages occurred during the tenant's occupancy. This can help provide evidence for any necessary repairs and deductions from the security deposit.

To ensure a smooth transition at the end of a residential lease term, it is vital that landlords and tenants communicate openly, document the condition of the property properly, and abide by the lease agreement terms.

Need help navigating your next residential lease? Contact us! 

With years of expertise in the South African rental market and a deep understanding of both landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities, we can help you navigate the onboarding of your next tenant. Get in touch with us today and let us help you on your way to a successful landlord / tenant relationship.