How to handle small damages from tenant

[Paul S.]

Hi everyone :)

The situation:

Good tenant. Underpaying due to rent control.

I noticed a dent in the aluminium downspout, restricting rain flow.

Tenant said he tried to bend it back, but was unsuccessful.

I didn't push for "who caused it", but I think we both know.

To hire a contractor to fix it would cost about $250. 

Should I simply have it fixed, or send him the bill? One side of me says tenants are responsible for damages. The other side says it is not a big expense, the tenant has been good, and I don't want him to hide problems in the future.

Any advice for this, or similar issues?

Thanks!

Paul

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Paul S.:

You're too wishy-washy on this topic. You need to set a firm policy and stick to it.

It's probably too late for this situation. You didn't give a firm answer right away, so now it sounds unprofessional to go back and charge the tenant. 

Personally, I would pay to have it repaired, then I would make it very clear to the Tenant that they will take full responsibility for future damages they cause.