Factors influencing carpet lifespan in rentals

Multiple factors impact the active service life of carpets in lets. These include quality, footfall, tenant behaviour, maintenance and reports.

Carpet quality

When considering the lifespan of carpeting, choosing high-quality carpets in Chester and other cities for rentals always offers a better return. While other factors must be considered, low-quality carpeting will typically only last between two to four years, while a higher quality carpet can endure for between eight to 15 years offering substantial value in the long term.

Foot traffic

The more carpets are walked on, the quicker they wear out. Consequently, foot traffic is a factor. Renting to multiple occupants can speed up wear, as can letting to someone who socialises more frequently.

Tenant behaviour

The personal habits and lifestyle of tenants can also impact carpet wear. For instance, tenants wearing outdoor shoes inside can bring dirt and debris indoors, putting extra stress on carpets, and those who eat and drink in carpeted rooms can cause spills and stains.

Maintenance

Carpets last longer when well maintained. Without regular care like vacuuming and instantly addressing accidents like spillages, the longevity of carpets is curtailed.

Check-in and check-out reports

In rental properties, check-in and check-out reports should document carpet conditions and include existing wear and tear and damage. This establishes a baseline to assess damages when tenancies end. These reports determine when damages exceed a fair amount of wear and tear or if deposit deductions are justifiable.

Considerations for landlords

While landlords are responsible for maintaining their properties which includes carpets, if a tenant causes damage to them beyond what is considered reasonable wear and tear, the landlord can seek compensation.

Normal wear and tear is classed as the gradual deterioration that occurs to carpets over time. Carpets are considered a short-term asset. This is because they have a depreciation life of between five to seven years.

Legally, landlords aren’t entitled to become materially or financially better off after a tenancy ends. As a result, when damage exceeds normal wear and tear, landlords must not improve upon the value of their property, referred to as betterment.

Disputes over damage can be mitigated with effective check in and check out reports signed and dated by tenants, as well as routine inspections.