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Landlord and Tenant Information for Albertans

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You are here: Home / Security Deposits / FAQ – Can a landlord deduct carpet cleaning or painting expenses from the security deposit?

FAQ – Can a landlord deduct carpet cleaning or painting expenses from the security deposit?

Landlords can only keep money from the security deposit for damages that are beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear means the declining condition of the rental property that occurs over time, even though the tenant has been regularly cleaning and maintaining the property.

For example, if a tenant left the carpet with stains, dirt and/or rips, then the carpet would have damage beyond normal wear and tear. So, the landlord could deduct carpet cleaning costs from the security deposit. However, if a tenant left the carpet clean with only signs of normal wear and tear, the landlord could not charge for carpet cleaning.

If a tenant does not agree with the deductions made from the security deposit, they should write to the landlord requesting return of the security deposit and the reasons why the deductions are unreasonable. A tenant may not agree with the reason for the deduction or may disagree with the deducted amount. If the landlord and tenant cannot come to an agreement on their own, the tenant can make an application in Alberta Court of Justice Civil or with Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service for return of the security deposit.

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  • About
    • About CPLEA and Disclaimer
    • Copyright Statement
  • Topics
    • Legislation
    • Leases and Agreements
    • Security Deposits
    • Inspection Reports
    • Responsibilities
    • Shared Accommodation
    • Repairs
    • Notices
      • Eviction Notice (Notice of Termination of Tenancy for Substantial Breach)
      • Notice of Objection to an Eviction Notice
      • Notice of Entry by the Landlord
      • Notice of Landlord
      • Notice of Rent Increase
      • Notice of Termination of a Periodic Tenancy for Allowable Reasons
      • Notice to End a Periodic Tenancy
      • Tenant’s 14 Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy
    • Dispute Resolution
  • Resources
  • FAQs
  • Glossary
  • Find Help
    • Forms
    • Legal Advice
    • Government & Court Services