What items are considered fair wear and tear?
I work for a large company renting properties as accommodation for our employees. I feel that the house owners and estate agents are taking advantage of us when it comes to the repair and maintenance of the property. What items are considered fair wear and tear? Loose cupboard hinges? Loose tap knobs? Shower door wheels wearing out? Window fasteners and handles? When should the tenant be responsible for painting or replacement of carpets etc ?
Category: Property, Rental Matters
Region: South Africa, Mpumalanaga
1 Answer
Fair wear and tear are simply those items that would be ordinarily worn away or damaged as a result of use. Anything apart from a vacant property.This would include door handles, locks, loose taps, knobs, shower door wheels, window fasteners and handles, toilet seats, geysers, curtains, blinds etc. If the tenant accidentally burns the carpet or drives nails into the wall, of course that would not constitute fair wear and tear. A lot depends on the lease agreement but generally the landlord is responsible for fair wear and tear. Your large company should have enough leverage to compel a favourable lease agreement and insist on the landlord’s proper maintenance of the properties.