You should return the property to your landlord in the same state it was when you first moved in but allowing for wear and tear.

Your landlord can't deduct money from your deposit for normal wear and tear, but they can for damage.

Examples of wear and tear are:

  • Worn carpets
  • Scrapes and scuffs on the walls
  • Faded curtains

Examples of damage are:

  • A burn hole or nail varnish spill on a carpet
  • A hole punched into a wall
  • Torn or missing curtains

If your landlord does need to replace what you've damaged, they should do so on a like-for-like basis. For example, if you damage a cheap, old mattress, you shouldn't have to pay for a top-of-the-range brand new one.

You should leave the property clean and tidy when you vacate.