I have a question regarding handing over property when moving from a rented property. If there are plumbing isseues (incurred due to daily use by the tenants), burnt kitchen due to a fire, structural damange and requirement of proper painting the house both inside and outside due to tenants painting random cars and dolls on the walls etc, and broken tiles and windows: who is responsible for the damages to the property? The tenant or the landlord? Additionally, if a tenant continously overstays past the date they said they will leave on and have yet again given another date- what is the ruling in terms of rent payment for the days they are overstaying?
Hello Dr Sarah,
As per general practice, you shouldn't be deducting money for general wear and tear but for negligence or downright carelessness, you can deduct the amount from the security they paid you. The matter will also be dictated by the question of who was responsible for maintenance, you or the tenant.
If they are overstaying, you are within rights to deduct that amount from their security amount as well.