A £420 claim for alleged damage to internal decoration has sparked debate about what constitutes wear and tear versus tenant-attributable damage. A two-year tenancy came to an end with the landlord seeking compensation, but the tenant argued that some marks on the walls were simply a result of everyday living.
The dispute centred around a comprehensive check-in inventory, which described the walls as "freshly painted throughout" and showed uniform finishes through photographic evidence. The tenant acknowledged some marks, but claimed they were inevitable over such a long tenancy period. Upon inspection at the end of the tenancy, reports noted significant scuffing, staining, and discolouration.
The adjudicator agreed that natural wear is expected over time, but deemed the extent and distribution of the damage to exceed what's considered fair wear and tear. The decision applied the 'betterment' principle, reducing the award for redecoration costs as the decoration was already nearing the end of its lifespan.
This case highlights the importance of thorough record-keeping for both landlords and tenants. A robust check-in inventory with evidence can help establish a baseline against which deterioration can be measured. Understanding what's considered fair wear and tear versus damage is crucial in managing expectations and avoiding disputes at tenancy's end. Organisations like the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) play a vital role in resolving these disagreements fairly.