Wear and tear is the expected decline in condition or performance of an object due to regular use, age, and environmental factors. It refers to the damage or depreciation that naturally occurs over time.

It can affect various types of items, including buildings, vehicles, furniture, appliances, clothing, and other tangible assets. It includes minor damages, deterioration, or diminished functionality that occur as a natural consequence of regular use, without any unexpected or sudden external events.

It can encompass scratches, dents, fading, fraying, rust, mechanical wear, or the natural aging of materials. Over time, these factors can impact the appearance, performance, or functionality of an item, necessitating maintenance, repairs, or eventual replacement.

It’s important to differentiate wear and tear from damages caused by accidents, negligence, or misuse, which may not be considered normal or expected. Many insurance policies and warranties have exclusions for wear and tear, as it is considered part of the natural lifecycle of an item.

Understanding wear and tear helps individuals and organizations manage and maintain their assets, plan for replacement or repairs, and appraise the overall condition and value of their possessions or properties over time.

Additionally, insurance exclusions and policy exclusions are specific terms used to refer to certain conditions or situations that are not included. These exclusions may vary depending on the type of coverage.