Tenant Property Damage - No Deposit

[Javier Pompa]

Hello,

Looking for advice on tenant property damage.

I live in a duplex in LA county where I occupy one of the units. Today my neighbor/tenant crashed into the wrought iron fence that fences off the property, warping the metal and causing a few problems. The impacted also ripped off the bumper of their car.

The issue is, they don't have a deposit that I can deduct from (I inherited the tenant from the previous property owner). I was not home when it occurred, and to their credit, they informed me via text as soon as it happened provided photos and apologized. However, they are insinuating that because it was an "accident" they are not responsible. Unfortunately it is not work I can fix personally, and will need to hire out. What can I do here?

What I have already done:

• Informed that that they will need to pay for the damages. Suggested reporting the property damage to their car insurance when they file their claim to repair their car.
• Recorded a video of the damage and sent it to them.