Landlord is asking for replacement of 15 year old countertop

[Aditya Vaishampayan]

The apartment was under agreement and has been used for the last 6 years or more. replacement. These apartments are 2005 built and since then countertop hasn’t been replaced. We took over the lease from someone who has been living there since 2016. We stayed there for an year and moved out due steep increase in rent. The leasing company is asking for countertop replacement as it shows significant wear and tear. Are we entitled to pay for damages? Waiting for your reply.

[Brian Bohrer]

Hello Aditya,

You would most likely have to confirm with the local housing authority to ensure what is "wear and tear" but generally in most states the landlord is responsible for wear and tear replacement.  If there was something significant that you damaged and the landlord has photos to prove the damage was not there before you moved in, then you would be liable.  But generally items like appliances, carpet, paint, cabinets etc would examples of items that the landlord is able to depreciate over time on their taxes and therefore is expected to replace when needed.

I hope this helps!  Good luck :)