In California, ordinary wear and tear is not a proper security deposit deduction. Normal wear means ordinary use from living in the rental, not tenant-caused damage beyond normal use.
What landlords cannot usually charge to the deposit
California law bars deductions for ordinary wear and tear, cumulative ordinary wear, and preexisting damage. A landlord also should not charge unnecessary or unreasonable amounts.
Examples that often need scrutiny include faded paint from time, minor scuffs from ordinary use, worn carpet from normal traffic, and cleaning charges that go beyond restoring move-in cleanliness.
Cleaning and carpet cleaning
California does not make professional cleaning or carpet cleaning automatic. A landlord may claim cleaning only when it is reasonably necessary to return the rental to the same level of cleanliness as at the beginning of the tenancy, excluding ordinary wear.
How to dispute a wear-and-tear charge
- Compare move-in and move-out photos or videos
- Save the lease, inspection records, and cleaning receipts
- Ask for the itemized statement and required support
- Check whether the charge is for preexisting damage, ordinary wear, or unnecessary professional cleaning
- Put disputed deductions in writing
Related California guides
- What can a California landlord deduct?
- California security deposit evidence guide
- California move-out checklist
- California security deposit demand letter
The guide above helps you identify weak deductions. The paid system gives you the California letters that raise those issues clearly.
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Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.