Tenant security deposit deduction

[Hai Le]

Hello all! I just recently had a tenant move out with a security deposit of $1000. The unit required extensive cleaning due to a shedding dog they had, it also had damages to the bathroom door and door trim from what seemed to be the dogs nails digging into it. There was also burn holes in a couch that he had purchased and wanted to leave in the unit. I suspect there to have been smoking in the unit which is prohibited in the lease agreement.

What would be a proper way to address this and reasonable deduction to the security deposit for the extensive cleaning due to the excessive dog hair, damage to door and door frame and the high possibility of smoking that occurred in the unit?

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Hai Le:

First, it's important to understand what the law requires/allows. Under New York law, landlords have 14 days after the tenant vacates the property to either return the full security deposit or provide an itemized statement indicating any deductions made from the deposit.

If the landlord deducts any expenses from the security deposit, they must provide the tenant with an itemized list detailing each deduction and the corresponding cost. This list should include descriptions of the damages or unpaid rent, along with any supporting documentation or receipts for repair costs.

I would start by creating the itemized list of charges, even if they are estimates. Then focus on finding professional vendors that can clean/repair, as necessary. Move fast because the clock is ticking.