The short answer
Start with Your Lease
Your lease is the first place to look for what damage you must cover. It often lists specific rules about cleaning, repairs, and alterations. Read it carefully to understand your obligations before any incident happens.
If your lease says you are responsible for all repairs, that may include minor issues like a clogged sink or a broken blind. However, landlords cannot make you pay for normal wear and tear, such as faded paint or worn carpet from regular use. Know the difference.
Common Tenant Damage Examples
Damage you cause accidentally or intentionally is typically your responsibility. Examples include a large stain on the carpet from red wine, a cracked bathroom tile from dropping something heavy, or a hole in the drywall from moving furniture.
Also, if your guest damages the property, you may be liable. Water damage from leaving a bathtub running or a fish tank leak that ruins the floor is often on you. Even if it was an accident, the cost to fix it usually falls to you.
- Broken windows or doors
- Large carpet stains or burns
- Holes in walls or ceilings
- Water damage from overflowing appliances
- Pet damage like scratched floors or chewed trim
- Missing fixtures or hardware
Normal Wear vs. Damage
Normal wear and tear is not your responsibility. This includes minor scuffs on walls, faded paint, loose doorknobs, or carpet that thins from walking. These are expected from everyday living and are the landlord's cost to fix.
Damage, on the other hand, is sudden or unusual harm. A water stain from a leaking pipe inside the wall is not your fault, but a stain from a plant pot you overwatered is. If you are unsure, ask your landlord in writing before you move out.
What About Repairs and Maintenance?
You are generally not responsible for repairs needed to keep the home livable, such as a broken heater, a leaking roof, or a faulty water heater. These are the landlord's duty. Report them quickly in writing so they can fix them.
If you cause the need for a repair, like flushing a toy down the toilet, you may have to pay for the plumber. Also, if you ignore a small leak and it causes mold, you could be held responsible for the extra damage. Act fast and notify your landlord.
Documentation and Communication
Take photos of any damage as soon as it happens. Save receipts for any repairs you pay for. Keep copies of all emails or texts with your landlord about the issue. This protects you if there is a dispute later.
Tell your landlord about damage right away, even if you caused it. Hiding it can make things worse. If you live in Milwaukee, remember to document everything clearly. Most landlords appreciate honesty and may work with you on costs.
- Photograph the damage from multiple angles
- Note the date and time of the incident
- Save written messages with your landlord
- Keep receipts for any cleaning or repairs you pay for
- Report the damage in writing promptly
Need help right now?
Call (414) 348-0250 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (414) 348-0250Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord deduct from my security deposit for normal wear?
No, landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear. They can only deduct for damage beyond that, such as a broken window or a large stain. Review your lease and your state's laws. If you disagree, ask for an itemized list of deductions.
What if I accidentally cause water damage?
If you accidentally cause water damage, like leaving a sink running, you are likely responsible for the repair costs. Notify your landlord immediately and document the incident. Your renter's insurance may cover some costs, but check your policy. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Do I have to fix damage myself before moving out?
You can fix damage yourself, but it must be done properly. For example, patching a small nail hole is fine, but a large hole may need a pro. If you do it poorly, your landlord may charge you more. Always get written approval before making changes.