Hi everyone, Looking for advice from experienced landlords on how to handle a tenant property alteration and material loss situation.

Background: In California, I've a rental property where Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring was installed about 6 years ago. At the time of installation, 1.5 extra boxes of matching LVP were stored in the garage specifically for future board replacements/repairs. I confirmed this in writing with the tenants via email in 2020, sharing floor care instructions and explicitly noting that the extra boxes were left in the garage for future property repairs.

Current Issue: Recently some click-lock joint separations appeared in about 10 areas inside the home. While engaging the contractors for repairs, I discovered the tenants used the stored backup flooring to build a floor for a garage gym.

Manufacturer confirmed that this specific LVP product line has been discontinued. The manufacturer's current line uses a different plank size and locking system that will not click into the existing floor.

Current Situation: Spot repairs inside the house with exact-match new material are no longer possible due to the lack of backup stock. I need to either harvest matching planks from a single area to patch the damaged main areas, and re-floor that single sacrificed area with new material (using a transition strip) OR Re-floor an entire floor.

The tenants claim they did not recall that the stored boxes were reserved for repairs and noted that the materials sat unused in the garage for years.

Questions for the community: How have you handled charging tenants when unauthorized use of stored materials forces a more expensive repair?

In terms of security deposit deductions or immediate billing, how do courts/mediators typically view charging for the labor involved in harvesting planks vs. standard spot repair costs?

What is the most practical way to structure the repair and billing to remain legally protected while keeping the process fair?

Appreciate any insights or similar experiences!