Who pays for Mid-Lease repairs

Question

If mid-lease inspection has uncovered a ceiling fan and two light fixtures that need replaced (broken by kids hitting then with a football), do I send the tenants a bill to pay now, or deduct out of security deposit?  Taking out of the deposit seems logical, but multiple repairs, if they renew another year, could eat into the deposit and not be enough left in the end if major repairs turn up.

JD Martin · Answer

Charge for repairs now. You may need that deposit later for unpaid rent or other damages.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Bill the tenants now. Don't ever deduct anything from the deposit because that's your only security that the tenants will abide by the contract.

Theresa Harris · Answer

If they are broken and a fire risk, I'd replace them now AND bill the tenants.  If the kids are playing football in the house and broke a fan and two light fixtures, I would not renew their lease.  One I can see, but after the first one was broken the kids kept playing football in the house and broke two more-so the kids didn't learn after the first one and the parents didn't do anything.

Taylor L. · Answer

Check with your state & local laws. Absent anything to the contrary there, the security deposit is for damages when the tenant moves out. It's not drawn down for damages while they live there.

Melanie Thomas · Answer

Hello, charge for repairs now. Curious as to how you ended up handling. Happy investing!

Ash S. · Answer

You need to charge them now. My tenant did the same thing, accidental damages and then I need to get it repaired. I told them that they need to pay but they keep on insisting that deduct from security deposit. I sent them emails and then finally a certified mail which clearly states that your next month rent is Rent plus Repair Cost plus Certified mail charges. Anything less is being paid then it's legal action/eviction. Took advice from eviction attorney for the same.

Don't budge and don't let these property abusers give you tough time and destroy your property. Fix it one time and forever.

Security deposit deduction only happen when they move out or terminate the lease not for in between repairs.

Who pays for Mid-Lease repairs

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