Add value through layout changes, not expensive finishes.One strategically placed wall that creates an extra bedroom can raise Section 8 rents by $200 to $400.That’s the cheapest ROI move in the entire business.Luxury upgrades won’t do that.

Allison, I’ve gone back and forth on this in our rentals, and here’s what’s worked best for us:We remove all mounts during turnover unless they’re brand-new, universal, and in the right location.Leaving random mounts creates more issues than it solves, wrong height, wrong VESA pattern, wrong size, or the next tenant wants the TV on a different wall.

Taking out a wall might require beams and the city does not want anybody doing work like this. 

At some point repainting will need to be done, but you will still need to get scuff marks removed and wall dings repaired, it’s just part of the deal.I painted it about 6 years ago.

Simple extras like a coffee bar or game wall also help bookings.

Totally unnecessary for most dryers especially if they vent directly on an exterior wall. 

Quote from @Sasha Leans: I would have your contractor open up that wall more and check the extent, looks like more water/mold damage back there..

They can gaslight you, but that is just a distraction.They actually sell wipes to detect pot residue on walls, but I am not sure if they work and I would not spend the time or energy in engaging in establishing "proof" - you'll put up walls and they'll just dig more tunnels.Instead, I would:Contact their case worker ASAP, cite the behavior as a lease violation with her, and state that in addition to it being a breach of lease, it is creating health concerns for your family. 

From a legal perspective, my understanding is anything less than building code (wall mounted) leaves me liable for injury.

If a rat did die in a wall, the smell is temporary.In most cases:• Odor lasts 3–7 days at peak• Completely gone within ~2 weeks• No need to physically remove the carcass unless it’s accessible and causing an extreme smellMost pest companies won’t tear walls apart without clear evidence either.