Unfortunately, property damage caused by a tenant is something that happens to almost every landlord. Sometimes it's an understandable accident, and in other instances, it can be intentionally malicious. Whatever the situation is, you need to know how to rectify it. Read on to learn what landlords can do when a tenant destroys their property.
Identify and Document the Damage
As a landlord, you probably already know how important it is to document everything, and this is incredibly important when your property gets damaged. First, you'll want to determine whether the damage was intentional or unintentional. If you know your tenant well enough, you can usually tell, and if they reached out to you about the damage, it likely was an accident. If a tenant refuses to take responsibility, tries to downplay the damage, or doesn’t report it, it was likely on purpose or at least due to carelessness.
If you've taken pictures of the property before the tenant moved in, this will be instrumental to your documentation process. If not, start taking pictures of everything, even what's not damaged, so you can compare what the property usually looks like. You also want to keep a record of all the communication, or lack thereof, that you have with the tenant, so be sure to record texts, letters, or emails.
Get an Estimate and Discuss It With the Tenant
Next, you'll want to contact the professional services necessary to restore the property. It's a good idea to get an estimate from multiple contractors before beginning so you can compare prices. While hiring the most expensive contractor may be tempting, inordinate payments on the tenant's end can get you into legal trouble. You'll also want to inquire how long it will take to get the property back in shape, as some damages can leave a property vacant, costing you rental income.
Once you've identified the total cost and the approximate time frame of repairs, you need to talk with the tenant; you'll also want to give them an itemized list of repairs. Starting out trying to be amiable and level-headed can help things go smoothly. It will also help you tell whether your tenant intends to pay or give you trouble.
How To Deal With Aggressive Tenants
Most tenants will likely be agreeable, and you can devise a payment plan together. However, when dealing with difficult tenants purposefully causing damages, it is critical that you know the law and your rights as a landlord. In these cases, you need to call the police so they can either arrest the tenant or give them a hefty fine. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to sue them in small claims court.
No matter how you decide to deal with a tenant that destroys your property, remember to document everything and keep a level head. While it may be difficult, treat your rental as a business and remove as much emotion from the situation as possible.
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