Who pays for damage to your rented home?

Your landlord should not keep money from your deposit because of normal wear and tear.

What is fair wear and tear?

Wear and tear does not mean damage.

Wear and tear means normal changes in your home caused by everyday living.

For example:

• a brand new carpet might show signs of use over time

• a very old carpet might get thinner

• wind and rain might cause paint on window frames to peel

• small scuff marks on walls

There could also be small cracks in plaster or faded wallpaper or paint.

Your landlord cannot expect the property to stay exactly the same while you live there.

Accidental damage you cause

Tell your landlord if you accidentally damage anything in your rented home.

This includes damage by people who live with you or your guests.

Arranging to fix damage yourself

If your landlord agrees, you can make or arrange repairs or replacements.

Get receipts for work done and items you buy.

Use your inventory to record details of damage you repair with your landlord's agreement.

If you leave your tenancy without fixing damage, your landlord could:

• keep money from your deposit

• take legal action to cover the cost

Accidental damage caused by neighbours

Your landlord usually has to repair damage that you did not cause.

This could include:

• leaks from a neighbouring flat

• damage to the roof or windows caused by a neighbour's building works

Your landlord might have insurance that includes accidental damage to the building.

If they do not, your landlord can take action to recover the cost of work from the neighbour. 

If your belongings are damaged

Your landlord does not have to replace any of your belongings.

You can ask your neighbour for compensation. You can take court action if they will not pay.

Damage due to crime

Your landlord usually has to repair damage caused by a crime.

Examples include:

• windows broken by a burglar

• vandalism in a shared area such as a garden or hallway

If your home has been damaged by crime, contact the police and ask for a crime report number.

Tell your landlord if there is criminal damage.

Report repairs you need and give your landlord a reasonable time to fix problems.

Your landlord does not have to replace your belongings if they are stolen or damaged through crime. 

Damage due to repair problems

Your landlord is responsible for fixing things and redecorating if your home or belongings are damaged during repair work.

You can take your landlord to court for compensation if repair problems damage your belongings.

Insurance for tenants

You can get contents insurance for accidental or criminal damage in a rented home.

Your landlord is responsible for buildings insurance.