Normal wear and tear is gradual deterioration from ordinary use, such as minor scuffs, faded paint or worn carpets; damage is avoidable or excessive harm, such as broken fittings or large stains. In Ireland, a landlord should not deduct for fair wear and tear, and any deduction should be reasonable, linked to actual loss, and not the full cost of replacing an old item with a new one. Ask for an itemised explanation and supporting photos, invoices or quotes, and compare these with the check-in condition. If you cannot agree, the RTB may assess the evidence through dispute resolution.