Tenant property destruction

[Ryan Daulton]

How do we protect ourselves from a tenant causing us significant damage in excess of the deposit amount?  e.g. if we add a clause to the lease contract stating they will be liable for all charges due to their purposeful destruction or negligence, is this legally binding?  If it matters, my properties are in Texas.

[Theresa Harris]

The tenant is responsible, however, good luck collecting anything over and above the deposit.  You can go to small claims court, but you are unlikely to see the money.  Best way to reduce the chance of it happening is through good screening when you place a tenant and do regular inspections.  Also avoid certain types of rentals-the C and D class are more likely to have higher turnover costs as they attract a lower quality tenant.