Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Washington

How to distinguish between normal wear&tear and damaged property?

Landlord classified every thing that isn�t perfect as damaged. After I paid $300 to cleaning ladies to clean the house, he still marked walls, oven, dishwasher, etc. dirty. We have been compliant with him in many other occasions. How can I dispute the notion he has that his house was perfect before we moved in? No, I didn�t take pictures before we moved in. Because we just moved to Seattle from outstate, and I was 8 months pregnant. I didn�t expect somebody would take advantage of us.

Appreciate your advice!


Asked on 9/10/03, 5:23 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jahnis Abelite ABELITE LAW OFFICES, P.S.

Re: How to distinguish between normal wear&tear and damaged property?

My best advice is that you sue your landlord for your deposit after you move out. Sue in small claims court. The landlord must give you an accounting of any deposits withheld within 14 days of move out and if you don't agree, sue him/her/them. No court will demand perfection in condition. Rental properties will always show some degree of wear and tear that is ordinaru and reasonable.

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Answered on 9/14/03, 1:54 am


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