What are wear and tear in Rent Agreement

Question

► I am living in a rented flat in Hyderabad.My landlord says being tenant i am responsible for wear and tear.Recently one tap in kitchen was leaking.Plumber said leakage is due to worn out of parts in tap due to life span.Hence needs change with New tape.Landlord says since it was wear and tear I have to bear the cost.I said i can bear the cost for minor repairs but changing tap is a major work,he has to bear.He refused and i had to bear it.In another incident two washbasin supporting rods were rusted and had to replace.he says i will pay for cost of material and i have to bear labour charge.He says it also comes under wear and tear.Please clarify.

Answer 1

Dear Sir,

Landlord’s Duty:

Maintain the property in tenantable condition

Repair damage caused by normal wear and tear

Replace fixtures that fail due to age, rust, corrosion, or life expiry

Tenant’s Duty:

Take reasonable care of the property

Pay for minor, routine, user-caused repairs

Not cause negligent or intentional damage.

If Landlord Refuses:

You can legally deduct the amount from rent
(after giving notice and proof)

If Dispute Escalates:

You may approach:

Rent Controller

Civil Court

Consumer Forum.

Answer 2

Dear Sir, as per your query,

Normal wear and tear refer to minor deterioration from regular use

We need to first check the rental agreement to see if “wear and tear” will be borne by you or the landlord. Under tenancy principles and most rental agreements, tenants are not liable for replacement caused by ageing.

For further details, feel free to contact our OLQ Team for a detailed discussion

What are wear and tear in Rent Agreement

2 Answers

Landlord’s Duty:

Tenant’s Duty:

If Landlord Refuses:

If Dispute Escalates: