Normal Wear and Tear vs. Tenant Damage in Colorado Rentals

Welcome to our rental reality check! One of the most common (and often misunderstood) topics in property management is knowing the difference between normal wear and tear and actual tenant damage. Understanding this distinction is key for both landlords and tenants when it comes to fair deposit returns and maintenance expectations.

What Is Considered Normal Wear and Tear in Colorado?

According to the Colorado Real Estate Commission and Section 38-12-102 of the Colorado Revised Statutes:

"Normal wear and tear means that deterioration which occurs, based upon the use for which the rental unit is intended, without negligence, carelessness, accident, or abuse of the premises..."

In simpler terms: If it happens naturally over time with responsible use, it's normal wear and tear.

Examples of Normal Wear and Tear (These Are generally NOT Tenant Charges):

These are examples of natural aging and use of a home that owners should expect between tenants:

• Faded or cracked paint due to sunlight or age
• Slightly torn or worn wallpaper
• Small nail or pin holes in walls
• Minor scuffs or scratches on floors
• Loose grout or worn bathroom tile
• Rust on metal fixtures like shower rods
• Carpet thinning or fading from foot traffic
• Note: If carpet is over 7 years old, it is considered fully depreciated and any replacement would typically be an owner responsibility.
• Door sticking from humidity
• Windows cracked due to foundation settling
• Worn-out enamel in old sinks or tubs
• Minor dust buildup on blinds or vents
• Partially clogged pipes from aging plumbing
• Dry or patchy lawn (seasonal/weather-related)
• Some weeds are natural, not every tenant will pick them like you would.

Think of it like your favorite pair of jeans — the fading and softness over time is expected.

Common Examples of Tenant Damage (These generally ARE Chargeable):

These result from misuse, neglect, or accidents and are not considered normal wear and tear:

• Large holes in drywall or broken doors
• Drawing or painting unauthorized murals on walls
• Missing fixtures, doorknobs, or hardware
• Heavily stained or pet-damaged carpet
• Broken blinds, windows, or torn screens
• Burn marks on countertops or floors
• Mold due to lack of proper ventilation or tenant neglect
• Cracked tiles from dropped items
• Missing smoke detectors or batteries
• Excessive filth, grease buildup, or pest infestations
• Unauthorized pet damage (scratches, smells, hair buildup)
• Items left behind after move-out (tenant is responsible for disposal)

Pro tip: If it looks like a house party gone wrong... it's probably damage.

Why It Matters

For property owners, understanding this distinction protects your reputation, helps you plan maintenance budgets, and ensures compliance with Colorado law. For tenants, it can mean the difference between getting a full deposit back or facing unexpected charges.

At Longmont Property Group, we approach move-outs with fairness and transparency. Our goal is to help both parties feel confident about what to expect.

FAQs About Wear and Tear vs. Damage

• Who pays for carpet cleaning?

  Carpet cleaning is always a tenant charge and is deducted from the security deposit. Stains, pet odors, or burns would fall under tenant damage. If the carpet is over 7 years old, it's typically considered the owner's responsibility to replace.

• What about nail holes from hanging pictures?

  Small nail or pin holes are considered normal. Large holes, wall anchors, or torn drywall are damage.

• My tenant left a dirty oven and grease all over the kitchen. Is that wear and tear?

  Nope. That’s damage due to neglect and will be charged accordingly.

• What if the tenant leaves belongings behind?

  The cost of removing and disposing of abandoned items is charged to the tenant.

• Are broken blinds or missing window screens considered damage?

  Yes. Tenants are responsible for any blinds or screens that are missing, damaged, or broken during their tenancy.

Want to Know More?

We're always here to help guide you through what to expect when a lease ends. Whether you’re an owner prepping for turnover or a tenant getting ready to move out, we believe in fair, informed decisions.

Need property management in Boulder County or beyond?
Contact Longmont Property Group today and let our team take the guesswork out of rentals.

This page is intended for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. Always refer to Colorado landlord-tenant law or consult an attorney for legal matters.