Please define "Normal wear and tear" as it pertains to ending a rental lease.?

[tillyouseeme]

I've lived here for three years, but am now leaving the state. My landlord has been nothing but kind but I fear he'll turn into Atilla The Hun the second my back is turned. The carpets are 'used' but will be professionally cleaned before I leave, I painted at his repeated insistence that I make this place feel like home, but now he doesn't like the colors and says he'll need to repaint, etc. There are bumps and bruises on walls, but nothing major. The house has started to settle on it's foundation, and he'll run into huge problems soon. Can I be held responsible for ANY of this, financially? Also, my 'pet deposit' was never termed 'non-refundable', do I get that back too?

[secretsoftruth088356]

3 yrs of normal wear and tear would require a re painting at light patching anywhere with anyone usually. The carpet is questionable. It runs in the multiple thousands to replace,so that will be something that I would spend the extra money on to have done(cleaned) really well. Honestly I would have him come in and give you an idea of what his expectations are for return of deposit.

[kemperk8359]

if you can't get a 3rd party as a witness that the landlord permitted the paint job, you willbe stuck with paying to have it returned tothe landlord's original color.Otherwise, good condition carpetand no marks on the walls but withpaint less perfect, is an example ofreasonable wear and tear.The landlord has to clean the unit andshampoo and paint a bit. YOU shouldonly have to pay for repairs to damagehe can prove are caused by you.review the walk through inspection sheet before your exit inspection.If it looks the same as it did then, youare off and running ok......if not,you know 'the score.'If you need more help, I am available