What counts as normal wear and tear in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania courts generally distinguish wear and tear (not deductible) from damage (deductible). Wear and tear includes: minor scuffs and nail holes, faded paint, worn carpet pile, loose grout, lightly worn appliance handles, and routine cleaning to a reasonable level. Damage includes: holes larger than a small nail, broken windows or fixtures, deep stains in carpet, smoke or pet odor requiring full cleaning, missing or destroyed appliances, and any modification not approved. The line is fuzzy in close cases. Up to 2x the deposit plus attorney fees if the landlord fails to return within 30 days without good cause, per 68 P.S. 250.512. Pennsylvania small-claims judges typically read close cases against the landlord.
Source: 68 P.S. 250.512
This is an informational answer based on 68 P.S. 250.512 as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a Pennsylvania-licensed attorney.