# Apartment Damage Responsibility

## Definition

At move-out, the apartment's condition is assessed through an inspection. The tenant is responsible for damages beyond normal wear — such as holes in walls, burnt countertops, broken blinds, or pet damage.

Normal wear — such as floor scuffing, faded wallpaper, or worn seals — is the landlord's responsibility. The boundary can be difficult and often leads to disputes that end up at the Rent Tribunal.

## Key points

- Damage beyond normal wear is the tenant's responsibility
- Normal wear (floors, wallpaper, worn parts) is the landlord's responsibility
- Assessment is made at move-out inspection
- Photo documentation at move-in protects you as a tenant
- Disputes are decided by the Rent Tribunal

## Practical tip

Photograph the apartment thoroughly at move-in. Send the photos to the landlord as proof of existing condition. At move-out: attend the inspection and challenge unreasonable deductions.