[Normal Wear & Tear] - how much would you deduct for holes?

[Sandy S.]

As per the above, tenant left me some nice wall holes upon inspection.  It was where a TV was mounted on the wall.  They have been occupying this unit   for 7+ years.  Lease states that the property must be returned in the condition it was received.  There were no holes prior in these areas.  Would you count this as normal wear & tear vs. damage?  And how much would you charge?  

I'm tending to lean towards the former, but want to make sure I am making a reasonable assessment to ensure the tenant doesn't throw a berating response to my charges.

[Marc Winter]

Quick question:  during the 7 years the tenant occupied, did you paint the interior?  If you painted recently, then take the deduction from security deposit.

If you DIDN'T paint in 7 years, be happy they stayed that long and let the handyman prep the walls as normal before you paint the unit to spruce up for the next tenant.