Anyone who's ever cracked open a tenant's rights book knows this phrase. Let's take rugs, for example. It doesn't take long for a new rug to look used. Obviously, if you spill grape juice over a new white rug, it stands to reason you should pay to get the stain removed. Many landlords and tenants end up in court over this issue.
Landlords try to get tenants to pay for new rugs when old rugs are ready to be thrown out.
First, protect yourself by taking pictures of your apartment when you move in and move out. When you damage the apartment, contact your landlord immediately. If your landlord keeps part of your deposit, try to remain level-headed. Perhaps you overlooked something when you cleaned. When you are sure your landlord was in the wrong, consider the time and energy it will take to fight in court.