What is Fair Wear and Tear?

Fair Wear & Tear – What It Really Means for Your Investment

One of the most common questions we’re asked by landlords is:
“What can I actually claim at the end of a tenancy?”

The answer often comes down to understanding the difference between fair wear and tear and tenant damage—and getting this right is critical to protecting your property and your return.

What is Fair Wear & Tear?

Fair wear and tear refers to the natural ageing and everyday use of a property over time.

It’s what happens when a home is lived in—not misused.

Examples include:

• Fading paint or curtains from sunlight
• General wear to carpets from foot traffic
• Minor cracking as a building settles
• Garden mulch naturally breaking down over time.

These are considered part of property ownership and are not claimable from tenants.

What is Tenant Damage?

Damage goes beyond normal use and is typically the result of carelessness, neglect, or misuse.

Examples include:

• Stained or damaged carpets (including pet damage)
• Scratched benchtops or broken fixtures
• Cracked windows caused by impact
• Excess dirt, grease, or lack of cleaning

These items can be claimed, provided there is clear supporting evidence.

How We Protect You

The difference between wear and tear and damage is often where disputes arise—but this is where our processes make a real difference.

At McDermott Residential, we take a proactive and evidence-based approach to protect your asset:

✔ Detailed Entry Condition Reports
We document your property thoroughly at the start of every tenancy.

✔ Comprehensive Photo Evidence
Clear, time-stamped photos ensure there is no ambiguity at the end.

✔ Routine Inspections with Purpose
We identify potential issues early—before they become costly problems.

✔ Thorough Exit Assessments
We carefully compare entry vs exit condition to support any claim.

✔ Strong, Compliant Bond Claims
We ensure all claims are properly evidenced and aligned with legislation—maximising your chances of a successful outcome.

Why This Matters

In today’s regulatory environment, evidence is everything.

Without clear documentation, even legitimate claims can be reduced or rejected.

Our role is to make sure that doesn’t happen.

Our Commitment

We don’t just manage your property—we actively work to:

• Protect its condition
• Minimise your risk
• Maximise your return at every stage of the tenancy

If you ever have questions about a tenancy or potential claim, we’re here to guide you with clear, practical advice.

Want to know how your property is tracking? Get in touch with our team anytime.