Can a Landlord Charge for Nail Holes in the Wall?

Hanging pictures is ordinary use, and small nail holes are often considered normal wear — especially when there aren't dozens of holes or major wall damage.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Excessive holes (dozens) requiring significant patching
• Large anchors or wall damage requiring drywall repair
• Holes accompanied by other unusual damage (gouges, broken corners)

Red flags

• Charging a full repaint for a few small nail holes
• No photos or a vague "wall repair" line item
• Charging for routine repainting after a multi-year tenancy

What to ask for

• Photos showing the number/size of holes and locations
• Invoice detailing labor/materials (patch vs repaint) and scope
• Move-in photos showing prior holes/conditions

How to dispute

1. Dispute the scope (few holes vs extensive damage).
2. Dispute repainting charges if it looks like routine turnover.
3. Attach your move-out photos showing actual condition.

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