Charge prior tenant's security deposit for carpet issues?

Question

Hi -

I have a 1 3/4 year old carpet with some stains - my new tenant is requesting a replacement carpet. I think the new tenant is being a tad picky, but my question is if it is fair to charge the prior tenant for replacement?  What standard generally warrants replacement and at what point can the prior tenant's security deposit be charged for the replacement or repair?

Can you charge for cleaning if general wear & tear?

Thx very much for any input!

Marc Winter · Answer

@Alan Bosca, are you looking for 'fair' or 'contractual' resolutions?

Your lease should address damages above normal 'wear/tear'.  Questions to consider:  how long was the previous tenant in that unit; what was the condition of the carpet when they moved in; how serious are the stains, and would steam-cleaning or shampoo resolve the stains?

A couple stains on carpeting over the course of a few years would be considered normal.  A cat spraying all over the carpet and making your eyes tear from the urine smell is not normal.  You'll have to make the call on the extent.

Do you need a better example of why NOT to use carpeting in the average rental?  Carpet is one of the worst investments a landlord can make.

Marc Winter · Answer

@Alan Bosca

Sure, use an underlayment with the vinyl.  And/or put area rugs over most of the vinyl.  Inexpensive 2nd's from outlet stores work great, and often cost about $100 +/- for a 10x12 or larger rug.

Better yet, put it in your lease to have the TENANT cover 80% of the floor area with their own area carpeting (not wall to wall) at their own expense.  They can take their dirt with them when they vacate,  LOL.

Wesley W. · Answer

I would use a 10mm Pergo laminate with foam backing and then place area rugs to satisfy the HOA.  (Better yet would be to have the tenants provide them based on their own taste.)

I would not use w-t-w carpets in rentals.  It's expensive, has a relatively short lifespan, and is not hygienic. Market a unit with used carpet and you will lose a non-insignificant portion of qualified applicant.

Dan H. · Answer

I do not consider stains normal wear n tear regardless on length of tenancy.   Wear n tear by definition is wearing out the product.

However, without a professional attempt to remove the stains, I do not think it correct to charge the previous tenant for the carpet replacement.  The last time I charged a tenant for carpet replacement it was obvious that carpet could not be cleaned but I discussed the scenario with the tenant stating we could attempt to clean it but that I expected it to fail.  I would charge the tenant for the failed cleaning and for the replacement if it could not be cleaned if the tenant wanted me to go that route.  Tenant agreed with my assessment that they had destroyed the carpet and told me to not try to get the carpet cleaned.   The tenants paid for the new carpet.

I try to treat the tenants fairly in all matters including their deposit.  A tenant should only have to pay for new carpet if a cheaper option to get the carpet in move in condition is not available.

Judy Parker · Answer

Yes, use luxury vinyl plank flooring (highest gauge possible). Wall-to-wall carpet is dirty, disgusting and a waste of money. You will be replacing it every time you change tenants. Furthermore, nowadays tenants hate carpet and they all whine about allergies (especially if a prior tenant had a pet in the apartment). Just rip out the carpet and put down luxury vinyl plank flooring (available at Lowes or Home Depot).  Super easy to install and keep clean. As far as noise is concerned, put a clause in your Lease that the Tenant must put down area rugs to protect Landlord's flooring.

Theresa Harris · Answer

The decision to change it or not and charge the previous tenant should be YOUR decision.  If there were stains that you can't get out, hire a professional.  That should have been done right after the tenant moved out and charged to the tenant.

As for the new tenant asking to replace the carpets, they knew the condition when they viewed the place and unless you told them you were replacing the carpets, tell them no.

Alan Bosca · Answer

Does vinyl look good these days?  Haven't checked.

Alan Bosca · Answer

Marc - I hear you re: alts to carpet, but my condo is extremely picky about any other options due to noise.  Do you have any suggestions?

Thx!

Charge prior tenant's security deposit for carpet issues?

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