We just recently moved out of a house we had lived in for 5 1/2 years. During that time frame, we never had new carpet ( was at least a year old that we know of) when we moved in. We also never had new curtains and never had new paint as well. My landlord withheld our 1150 deposit and is now trying to charge us for new carpet and new curtains. I have been trying to find any sources that say what is considered normal wear and tear in Oregon in regards to specific years that you lived in a rental. When we did the walk-thru we were told by the landlord that the carpet was dirty but we had paid an non-refundable deposit of 85 dollars for carpet cleaning and so we did not bother cleaning them. We also were told that the curtains were too old to deal with. He said the walls could be a little cleaner but I feel he is charging us an excessive amount of money. Unfortunately we did not get anything signed or take pictures ( now we know never ever trust anyone!! ) We can prove we lived there the amount of time we did but is this considered normal wear and tear? We have sent him a letter disputing the amount of money he charged us but we have not heard from him yet as we gave him 10 days to do so. He sent us copies of all the bills he had paid and I don't feel that toothbrushing the light fixtures and replacing burnt out light bulbs are my responsibility. Any links/advice would be greatly appreciated .

Hello hh:

The link you need is right here. At the top of this forum is a sticky note that will direct you to your state landlord tenant law. There, you will find out all the details of how this transaction is supposed to occur.

Beyond what the law says, you are required to leave the place "broom swept". Normal wear and tear would be figured on the life of the item. Let's say curtains have a 10 year life. You lived there 5 years. If you ruined them, you could only be charged half of their value.

I think he's taking you for a ride and I would sue him in small claims court for ALL of your deposit.

excon