Property Damage

Property damage refers to any harm or destruction caused to the rental unit or its contents beyond normal wear and tear. Lease agreements and state laws typically outline the responsibilities of tenants and landlords for preventing, repairing, and compensating for property damage. Tenants are generally liable for any damage they or their guests cause to the rental unit, such as broken windows, holes in walls, or stained carpets. Landlords may use the tenant’s security deposit to cover the cost of repairing such damage, provided they follow the proper procedures for documenting the damage and itemizing the deductions. Tenants may also be liable for any damage caused by their failure to promptly report maintenance issues or take reasonable steps to prevent damage, such as failing to notify the landlord of a leaky pipe or overflowing toilet.