Normal Wear and Tear Explained: What Florida Tenants Are (and Aren’t) Responsible For

Understanding what qualifies as normal wear and tear is one of the most important parts of leasing in Florida. In a Florida residential lease, tenants are not responsible for damage that occurs through ordinary, careful use of the rental over time. This article explains how normal wear and tear is treated under a standard Florida Realtors® lease, what landlords can and cannot deduct from a security deposit, and how this affects tenants at move-out.

This guide is provided for general educational purposes and is not legal advice. Always refer to your lease for exact terms.

Key Takeaway:

In Florida rentals, tenants are not responsible for normal wear and tear from ordinary use. Security deposits may only be applied to unpaid rent or actual damage, helping prevent disputes at move-out.

What Is Normal Wear and Tear in a Florida Lease?

Normal wear and tear refers to the expected deterioration of a rental unit that happens naturally over time when a tenant lives in the property responsibly. It is not caused by misuse, neglect, or accidents.

Under typical Florida lease language, landlords may not charge tenants for normal wear and tear. It is considered part of owning and renting a property.

Examples of Normal Wear and Tear

Common examples include:

• Faded or lightly scuffed paint

• Minor nail holes from hanging pictures

• Light carpet wear in high-traffic areas

• Worn grout or caulking due to age

• Loose cabinet handles from normal use

• Minor floor scratches from everyday foot traffic

• Appliances showing age but still functioning

These conditions are expected at the end of a lease and cannot be deducted from a security deposit.

What Is Considered Damage Under a Florida Rental Lease?

Damage goes beyond normal use and results from misuse, neglect, accidents, or failure to report issues promptly.

Examples of damage include:

• Large or unpatched holes in walls

• Broken doors, windows, or fixtures

• Deep gouges, burn marks, or permanent stains

• Unauthorized paint colors or alterations

• Missing appliances or fixtures

• Pet damage beyond typical wear

• Mold or water damage caused by failure to report leaks

Damage may be deducted from the security deposit if permitted by the lease and properly documented.

Can a Florida Landlord Deduct Normal Wear and Tear?

No. Under standard Florida lease language, landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear. Security deposit deductions are limited to:

• Unpaid rent

• Damage beyond normal wear

• Other charges specifically allowed by the lease

Routine aging of the unit is not a tenant expense.

How Normal Wear and Tear Affects Your Security Deposit

At move-out, landlords inspect the unit to determine whether deductions apply.

• Normal wear and tear: Not deductible

• Damage: May be deducted if documented and permitted

If deductions are made, landlords must provide written notice explaining each charge and return any remaining balance in accordance with the lease process.

Major Maintenance vs Tenant Damage (Important Distinction)

Florida leases often distinguish between minor maintenance, major maintenance, and damage. Many leases define major maintenance or major replacement as any repair costing more than $100 to $200, with $150 being typical.

Example:

A $75 toilet handle repair may fall under minor maintenance and could be a tenant's responsibility if stated in the lease.

A $450 toilet replacement exceeds the threshold and is considered major maintenance, making it the landlord’s responsibility.

This distinction protects tenants from being responsible for expensive repairs while helping landlords separate routine upkeep from property-level maintenance.

Why Reporting Issues Early Matters

Failure to report problems promptly can turn normal wear into chargeable damage.

For example:

• A small leak left unreported causes cabinet damage

• Moisture buildup that leads to mold

Prompt reporting helps protect both the tenant and the property.

What Tenants Should Do Before Moving Out

To avoid disputes:

• Clean the unit thoroughly

• Remove all personal items and trash

• Address small issues if allowed

• Take photos or videos of the unit’s condition

• Return all keys and access devices

Documentation helps clearly establish what qualifies as wear versus damage.

Florida Lease Wear and Tear FAQs

Is normal wear and tear deductible in Florida?

No. Normal wear and tear may not be deducted from a security deposit.

Can a landlord charge for repainting?

Only if repainting is required due to damage beyond ordinary use, not routine fading or minor scuffs.

Does failing to report maintenance issues matter?

Yes. Delayed reporting can result in additional damage that may become the tenant’s responsibility.