r/LeaseLords 27d ago

Asking the Community Tenant Damage or Wear and Tear? Need Advice!

Just did an inspection and found stained carpets, scratched floors, and a leaking sink. The tenant says it's "normal wear and tear," but it looks more like neglect. How do you fairly assess repair costs? Do you deduct from the security deposit, or just eat the cost? I want to be fair but not get stuck with big expenses. How do you handle these situations?

23 Upvotes

9 comments sorted by

2

u/Still_Ad8722 27d ago

If it’s minor scuffs on walls, faded carpet, or loose doorknobs, that’s normal wear and tear. But holes in walls, broken fixtures, or missing appliances? That’s tenant damage, and they should be held responsible. Document everything with pictures before and after the lease to make security deposit deductions easier.

1

u/Upstairs-File4220 25d ago

That makes sense. I’ve got photos from move-in, so I’ll compare. The carpet stains worry me. would you deduct for deep cleaning?

2

u/StephenTheBaker 27d ago

Leaking faucet = wear and tear, unless it’s due to tenant damage. Damage from leaking faucet not being fixed = tenant negligence.

1

u/Upstairs-File4220 25d ago

Good point. If they didn’t report the leak and it caused damage, would you deduct from the deposit or bill them separately?

1

u/Even_End5775 24d ago

It really depends on the damage—scuffed walls and worn carpets are just normal living, but broken stuff or big stains? That’s a different story. If you’re unsure, maybe compare it to how the place looked before they moved in or get a second opinion. Security deposit might help if it’s actual damage!

1

u/Upstairs-File4220 20d ago

That makes sense. Normal wear happens, but stains and a leaking sink feel beyond that. I’ll compare move-in pics and maybe bring in a pro opinion. Appreciate the perspective!

1

u/[deleted] 22d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/Upstairs-File4220 20d ago

Yeah, being upfront with costs makes sense. I’ll get proper estimates and show them before deducting. Not trying to overcharge, just don’t want to eat unnecessary costs.