California: Charged for normal wear and tear

Review deductions involving routine aging, ordinary use, old-item replacement, repairability, or betterment.

Reviewed: 2026-08-11

How sources are checked →

Deadline context

21 days

Statute

Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5

Review checklist

Separate true damage from ordinary wear.
Collect move-in/move-out photos and condition notes.
Ask how age, prior condition, repairability, actual cost, and betterment affect the claimed loss under the governing rule.
Challenge each deduction line item with evidence.

Frequently asked questions

Questions to check against your California records and the current source.

What should I check when a deduction may be ordinary wear and tear?

Review deductions involving routine aging, ordinary use, old-item replacement, repairability, or betterment. Start with your dates and records, then compare them with the current California source.

What is the California deadline for deposit return?

21 calendar days after tenant vacates premises (21 days).

Take the next step

Use the checklist above to organize your dates and records, then choose the action that fits what you found.

Check deductions Open state template Create my letter — $19