Ordinary use versus damage
Kentucky's cited deposit statute is built around damage lists and procedure. For renters, the practical question is whether the landlord is charging for real tenant-caused damage or for ordinary use and aging.
Plain-English examples
Ordinary use may include:
- light carpet traffic patterns
- minor wall scuffs
- faded paint
- normal appliance aging
- small marks from ordinary living
Damage may include:
- broken doors, fixtures, or windows
- large holes or heavy stains
- missing items
- pet or smoke damage beyond ordinary use
- damage that requires repair beyond normal turnover
Use the Kentucky list process
Compare the charge to:
- the move-in damage list
- your move-in photos
- repair requests during the tenancy
- your move-out photos and video
- the final damage list
- your written dissent to any wrong final-list item
How to protect yourself
- Take move-in and move-out photos or video.
- Save the lease and any move-in condition records.
- Ask for the move-out inspection opportunity.
- Keep the final damage list and any messages about it.
- Put specific disagreements in writing.
Related Kentucky guides
- What landlords can deduct in Kentucky
- Kentucky evidence checklist
- Kentucky move-out checklist
- Kentucky security deposit law
Ordinary-use disputes are usually evidence disputes. The clearer your condition proof, list comparison, and written disagreement, the easier it is to challenge an unfair charge.
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Important: This is general information and not legal advice.