Do I have to repaint the property at the end of my tenancy?

It is often stated in black and white in the tenancy agreement: The tenant must return the property in the same condition at the end of the tenancy.
But what does this mean? Does the entire property always need to be repainted? What can be considered normal wear and tear?

As a general rule, remember that there is no need to repaint everything!
At the end of the tenancy, the tenant is required to clean the paintwork, in other words, remove stains and carry out any minor touch-ups where necessary (even if the cost of the paintwork has already been fully depreciated). However, they do not have to repaint the entire property, as a certain degree of normal wear and tear must be taken into account. For information, paintwork is considered fully depreciated after nine years; this is the period used to define normal wear and tear, an issue that is so often disputed between the two parties.

If painting work is required before the end of this nine-year period, the landlord may claim compensation. For example, if the property needs to be repainted after three years because the tenant has caused damage, the landlord may claim compensation amounting to 6/9 of the cost.

So when must the tenant repaint the entire property?

When the damage can no longer be considered normal wear and tear. For example, if the tenant smokes and this has left nicotine stains on the walls and ceilings, or if there are nail holes, scratches, etc.
Of course, if a landlord lets their property entirely painted white and finds it painted in bright colours at the end of the tenancy, the tenant will have to pay compensation for the resulting rental damage.