Normal Wear and Tear (Vermont)
If you are being charged after move-out, this is usually the key question:
Is this actual damage, or just normal wear and tear?
Vermont does not allow deductions for normal wear and tear.
Vermont also excludes damage caused by actions or events beyond the tenant's control from deductible tenant damage.
What Counts as Normal Wear and Tear?
Normal wear and tear is the expected aging and ordinary use that happens when someone lives in a place.
It is different from damage beyond normal use.
It is also different from rent, tenant-required utility charges, or abandoned-property removal. Those are separate Vermont deduction categories, not excuses to turn ordinary aging into damage.
Common Examples Renters Usually Question
These are the kinds of charges renters often push back on:
- light scuffs
- faded paint
- worn flooring from normal use
- minor marks from ordinary living
- routine turnover cleaning
Whether a charge is valid still depends on the evidence, but normal wear and tear is not deductible.
What Looks More Like Damage?
Damage goes beyond normal use.
Examples include:
- large holes in walls
- broken fixtures from misuse
- heavy stains, burns, or major damage
- missing items that were part of the unit
See the full breakdown: What Can a Landlord Deduct in VT?
What To Do If You're Charged for Normal Wear
- compare the charge to Vermont's allowed deduction categories
- check your photos and records
- look for vague or unsupported deductions
- identify whether the claimed damage was beyond your control
- send a clear written request if needed
Start here: Deposit Not Returned