Top 5 things that look like damage (but aren’t)
Not all marks found in a property are signs of neglect or malicious behaviour. Many are simply the result of everyday living. Recognising the difference between real damage and normal wear and tear can ease landlord–tenant tensions and help keep relationships positive.
Here are five of the most common “false alarms” inspectors and landlords come across.
1. Furniture marks in the carpet
Heavy furniture can leave indentations in carpet over time. Think about a big family couch - the legs carry the weight of the furniture (and the people on it), compressing the fibres underneath. These flat spots often spring back after a good vacuum or steam clean.
⚠️ When to worry - if indentations are paired with stains, mould, or burns, they may require further attention. Otherwise, this is normal wear.
2. Scratches around locks and keypads
Scuffs and scratches near locks are common and usually come from missed key insertions or general wear. Occasionally even birds can contribute to the marks around external keypads or locks.
⚠️ When to worry - if scratches are excessive or paired with broken hardware. Otherwise, treat this the same way you’d treat scuffed shoes - evidence of use, not damage.
3. Nail holes from hanging pictures
Most tenants want to make a property feel like home, and hanging pictures is a common way to do that. Small nail holes are considered normal wear and tear, and in most cases can be patched easily.
⚠️ When to worry - if walls have been heavily drilled, anchors left behind, or large areas damaged. Landlords can also specify policies in tenancy agreements, but small picture hooks shouldn’t usually be classed as damage.
4. Oven grime
A dirty oven is not the same as a damaged oven. Build-up inside ovens happens naturally with use and is usually resolved with a good clean. The focus should be on actual problems such as broken elements, damaged seals, or burnt-out parts.
⚠️ When to worry - if oven parts are physically broken or repairs are needed. Surface grime alone isn’t damage.
5. Sticky residue on windows
Tape marks, privacy decals, or window stickers often leave behind sticky residue. While it may look unsightly, it doesn’t harm the glass. A scraper and alcohol solution usually remove it completely.
⚠️ When to worry - only if the glass itself is etched, scratched, or permanently marked.
Why this matters
The goal of property inspections isn’t to achieve perfection - it’s to maintain a safe, liveable, and well-cared-for space. Landlords who distinguish between real damage and daily living signs:
- Avoid unnecessary disputes with tenants
- Focus attention (and money) on genuine issues
- Build stronger, longer-term relationships with tenants who feel respected
Using tools like myInspections makes this easier. The app lets you capture timestamped photos, keep clear notes, and generate reports that show exactly what’s normal wear and what’s true damage. That way, everyone has the same clear record to work from.
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myInspections does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
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