The Renter's Ledger

What should you document before moving out?

Sort common wear indicators from items that may need photos, notes, cleaning, or repair.

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Normal Wear and Tear Checklist

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Minor wall scuffs from ordinary usePaint fading gradually over timeLight carpet traffic wearLoose handles or aging hardwareLarge or unpatched wall holesCarpet burns, cuts, or large permanent stainsBroken fixture or appliance componentMissing keys, remotes, shelves, or supplied items

Move-out checklist summary

0 items selected

These labels organize your move-out review; they do not decide whether a deduction is valid.

Ordinary-wear indicators: 0
Document or repair items: 0

Change any input and calculate again to compare another scenario.

Vintage illustration of a lease document, fountain pen, and botanical sprig

Check your lease

Compare the estimate with the written terms.

Normal wear generally reflects gradual change from ordinary use, while damage often involves avoidable breakage, misuse, or unusual deterioration. Classification depends on age, condition at move-in, length of tenancy, lease terms, and local rules. Use this checklist to organize evidence, not to make a legal determination.

Need help finding the relevant clause? Review it with LeaseGuard.

How the math works

Checklist result = selected ordinary-wear indicators + selected document-or-repair items.

Examples are educational and not universal legal classifications.
Move-in photos, age, useful life, and prior condition matter.
Photograph and date conditions instead of relying on labels alone.

What to keep in mind

This is a planning estimate based on the numbers you enter. The lease, timing rules, and local requirements may affect the real amount or deadline.

Change an input and calculate again to compare another scenario.

Worked examples

Gradual change

Minor traffic wear on older carpet may look different from a large burn, tear, or permanent stain.

Document context

A small wall scuff and a large unpatched hole should not be evaluated without considering move-in condition and ordinary use.

Wear and tear questions

What is normal wear and tear in an apartment?

It commonly means gradual deterioration from ordinary use, but the exact treatment depends on facts and applicable rules.

Are carpet stains normal wear?

Some gradual wear may be ordinary, while unusual stains, burns, or tears may be treated differently. Age and prior condition matter.

How should I document move-out condition?

Use dated photos or video, keep the move-in checklist, record meter readings and keys, and retain written communication.

Last reviewed August 8, 2026 · This calculator provides an informational estimate and is not legal, financial, tax, or housing advice.