Rental Property Wear and Tear

There is no exact amount of time specified by law that each item in a property should last before being considered worn out.

Tenants should not be responsible for costs that are considered normal maintenance. What's normal?

Landlords that install cheap carpeting must expect that carpet to show wear sooner than a better quality carpet. That wear is not the fault of the tenant.

If your property is rented to a family of six it will show more wear then if is occupied by a couple.

What is normal and ordinary wear and tear defies exact definition... even for the most conscientious owner.

To avoid as much controversy as possible every landlord should have a new tenant inspect the property and fill out a property inspection sheet.

Explain to the tenant that they should note any damage or defect in the property, because the both of you will use that information upon move out to determine if the tenant is responsible for any damage or unusual wear.

In our own properties we tend to give the tenant the benefit of a doubt if there is minor wear or damage. It avoids what could be far more expensive if the tenant seeks legal recourse.

You've probably heard about a landlord who found that his tenant was overhauling motorcycles in the living room of his rental home. 

You don't charge that guy for damage... you have him whacked?

All landlords should know about this... http://digbig.com/4ccej