Missouri landlords may deduct for restoration beyond ordinary wear and tear. That means normal aging and ordinary use should not be treated the same as tenant-caused damage.
Normal-wear arguments are stronger when they are tied to proof: move-in photos, move-out photos, inspection notes, and the landlord's written itemized list.
Plain-English examples
Normal wear 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
How to protect yourself
- Take move-in and move-out photos or video.
- Save the lease and any move-in condition records.
- Attend the move-out inspection if you can.
- Keep the landlord's inspection notice and itemized deduction list.
- Ask for receipts or support when the charge is unclear.
Related Missouri guides
- What landlords can deduct in Missouri
- Missouri evidence checklist
- Missouri move-out checklist
- Missouri security deposit law
Ordinary wear disputes are usually evidence disputes. The clearer your condition proof, the easier it is to challenge an unfair charge.
If the charge is vague, ask how it fits Missouri's deduction categories and why the itemized list treats ordinary use as damage.
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Important: This is general information and not legal advice.