In Alberta, the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) defines normal wear and tear as "deterioration that takes place over time from the use of the residential premises, even when the tenant provides reasonable care and maintenance." 

To maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship, it’s essential to understand what constitutes normal wear and tear versus damage, each party’s maintenance responsibilities, and how to handle related issues like security deposits, inspections, and repairs.

What Is Normal Wear and Tear?

Normal wear and tear refers to the expected, gradual deterioration of a property due to everyday use. This might include:

• Faded paint on walls from sunlight.
• Worn carpet in high-traffic areas.
• Minor scuffs or scratches on flooring.

These issues arise naturally, even with responsible tenant care, and tenants cannot be held financially responsible for addressing them.

On the other hand, some damage goes beyond normal wear and tear and the tenant is considered responsible for any repairs or other costs, such as:

• Holes in walls larger than those caused by nails or picture hangers.
• Stains, burns, or pet damage on carpets.
• Broken appliances or fixtures due to negligence or misuse.

Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities for Maintenance

The RTA and the Public Health Act require both landlords and tenants to play their part in maintaining a rental property. Here’s what each party needs to know:

Landlord Responsibilities:

1. Property Standards: The landlord must ensure the premises meet the Minimum Housing and Health Standards, covering plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and overall safety.
2. Inspections: Landlords are entitled to periodic inspections (with proper notice) to ensure the tenant is keeping the property clean and undamaged.
3. Repairs: It’s the landlord’s duty to address necessary repairs related to major systems or structural issues, like broken heating or leaking pipes.
4. Move-in and Move-out Inspections: The landlord must complete inspection reports to document the property’s condition at the beginning and end of the tenancy. These reports protect both parties in case of disputes.

Tenant Responsibilities:

1. Everyday Maintenance: Tenants must keep the property clean and avoid causing significant damage. This includes activities like:some text
   • Cleaning floors and appliances.
   • Replacing lightbulbs.
   • Informing the landlord of repair needs promptly.
2. Snow and Yard Maintenance: Tenants in single-family homes, duplexes, or townhouses with exclusive yard use are generally responsible for yard work and snow removal, unless otherwise agreed upon.
3. Avoiding Damage: Tenants must prevent damage caused by themselves, their guests, or pets. For example, they are liable for scratches on wood floors from furniture or stains on carpets from spills.

Dealing with Security Deposits and Wear and Tear

Landlords cannot deduct from a tenant's security deposit for costs associated with normal wear and tear, security deposit deductions are only permissible for:

• Repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Cleaning needed to bring the property back to a livable standard due to tenant negligence (e.g., deep stains, pet odors).

To avoid disputes:

• Complete inspection reports during move-in and move-out.
• Both parties should sign and keep a copy of these reports.
• Clearly outline cleaning expectations, such as carpet cleaning, in the lease agreement.

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By understanding their responsibilities and Alberta’s laws, both landlords and tenants can minimize conflicts over normal wear and tear. Regular communication, thorough inspections, and clear lease agreements are the keys to a smooth rental experience.

Looking for expert help with property management in Calgary or Alberta? Contact Ripple Property Management today for professional guidance on maintaining and managing your rental property!

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