Can a Landlord Charge for Flooring Damage (Hardwood/Vinyl)?

Flooring disputes often hinge on whether the condition is ordinary wear (minor scuffs) or damage (deep gouges, water damage). Costs should reflect repairability and remaining useful life.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Deep gouges, burns, or large stains caused by tenant actions
• Water damage due to negligence (e.g., long-standing leak not reported)
• Damage requiring repair/refinish beyond routine maintenance

Red flags

• Full-floor replacement when spot repair/refinish is possible
• No photos or no explanation of why repair wasn't feasible
• Charging for routine refinishing after long tenancy as tenant damage

What to ask for

• Photos and condition notes showing the damage area
• Estimate explaining repair vs replacement decision
• Itemized invoice for materials and labor

How to dispute

1. Dispute scope: spot repair vs full replacement.
2. Dispute charges that look like routine refinishing/turnover.
3. Request itemized estimates and evidence tying damage to tenant actions.

Start with the dispute template, then escalate to a demand letter if the landlord won't correct it.