What policy exclusion applies to damage from wear and tear?

The wear and tear exclusion specifically addresses damage that occurs gradually over time due to normal use, such as the deterioration of carpets, furniture, and appliances. This exclusion is commonly found in property insurance policies, stating that insurers will not cover damages that arise from the natural aging process or regular upkeep. The rationale behind this exclusion is that wear and tear is an expected part of owning property, and insurance is designed primarily to protect against sudden and accidental losses rather than the slow degradation of materials and systems over time.

The other exclusions mentioned, such as negligence, maintenance, and intentional damage, cover different types of scenarios that would not typically be insured under a standard property policy. Negligence pertains to failure to take reasonable care, maintenance focuses on the neglect of upkeep, and intentional damage involves purposeful acts that cause harm. Each of these exclusions serves a distinct purpose, but none directly addresses the gradual degradation that comes with wear and tear, making the wear and tear exclusion the appropriate answer.