I’m a Rental Property Owner and I’ve Had the Same Tenant in My Property for 5 Years. What Repairs Should I Expect to Have to Complete After a Longer Tenancy?

Audience: rental property owners wondering why turnover costs increase after multi-year tenancies and what types of repairs are normal, expected, and legally non-chargeable after long-term occupancy.

A long-term tenant is often a great thing — consistent rent, lower vacancy, and fewer turnovers. But when they eventually move out, the turnover cost is usually significantly higher than for someone who lived there only 12 months.

Here's what to expect after a longer tenancy.

FAQs ❓

Are long-term tenants cheaper or more expensive to turn over?
More expensive but they save you money over time by avoiding frequent turnovers.

Can I charge the tenant for this additional wear?
Usually no. After 5+ years, most items are fully depreciated.

Is repainting normal after a long tenancy?
Yes. paint typically lasts 3–5 years.

Will the flooring need replacement?
Often yes, depending on type and quality.

Why Longer Tenancy Means Higher Turnover Costs ✔️

Even great tenants create:

More foot traffic
More wall contact
More fixture use
More small bumps, scratches, and wear
More aging of paint and flooring

After 5 years, most interior finishes are at or near the end of their useful life.

What Repairs to Expect After a 5+ Year Tenancy 🧠

Below are the most common (and normal) turnover items.

1. Full Interior Repainting 🎨

Most homes require a complete repaint after 3–5 years.

Expect:

Faded paint
Noticeable wear
Smudging and scuffs
Areas that can’t be touched up cleanly
Accent walls needing full coverage

Typical cost:
👉 $1,200–$3,000 depending on size

This is almost always considered wear and tear and cannot be charged to the tenant.

2. Flooring Replacement or Major Cleaning 🧹

Carpet

Carpet has a lifespan of 5–7 years.
After a long tenancy, replacement is very common.

LVP/Vinyl

May show noticeable wear or scratching but often still usable.

Hardwood

May require refinishing or buffing.

Typical cost:
👉 $1,000–$3,000 depending on material and square footage

3. Deep Cleaning 🧼

After 5 years, normal accumulation includes:

Grime in corners
Cabinet and drawer buildup
Interior window and sill dirt
Appliance cleaning
Bathroom grout wear

Even with a clean tenant, deep cleaning is almost always needed.

4. Appliance Wear 🔌

Long-term use leads to:

Weak refrigerator shelves
Worn dishwasher racks
Burner/element malfunction
Worn-out microwaves
General aging

Some items may reach end-of-life and need replacement.

5. Caulking, Grout, and Sealant Refresh 🚿

After years of moisture and use, expect:

Cracked caulking
Discoloration
Loose grout
Sealing failures

These are wear items and not chargeable to the tenant.

6. Fixture Repair or Replacement 💡

Common examples:

Loose doorknobs
Aging blinds
Worn toilet seats
Loose faucets
Shower hardware aging

These are part of the natural lifecycle.

7. Exterior Touch-Ups 🌿

If applicable:

Power washing
Lawn cleanup
Gutter clearing
Minor siding or trim touch-ups

Long tenancies delay your awareness of exterior issues.

8. Safety Updates 🔥

NC law requires smoke/CO detector updates at designated lifespan intervals.

After a long tenancy, these items may need replacement.

What Cannot Be Charged to the Tenant After 5+ Years ❗

Deposits may not be used for:

Repainting
Carpet replacement
Faded or worn flooring
Caulk or grout aging
Minor appliance wear
Blind aging
General use-related deterioration

These are all ordinary wear and tear under NC law.

What Can Be Charged, Even After a Long Tenancy ✔️

Only damage beyond normal wear, such as:

Large holes in walls
Pet urine saturation
Broken appliances (from misuse)
Major gouges or scratches
Burns or stains
Broken doors or trim
Missing items
Excessive filth

These items still require depreciation, but tenant-caused damage is deductible.

Why Long-Term Tenancies Are Still Financially Beneficial 💡

Even though turnover is expensive, long-term tenants save money by reducing:

Vacancy time
Multiple turnovers
Marketing costs
Frequent repairs
Stress and admin time