Tenant may be hiding damages by claiming a breakin

[Ryan Moore]

I have a tenant on my new multifamily property who was screened by previous owner/management so they were inherited and already gave notice that they are moving at end of lease in October.  Their unit is on the second story. They claimed someone broke in and broke their glass door to the patio and then damaaged their washer and dryer.  The patio is not accessible without a ladder since it's not the main entrance.  It definitely sounds pretty odd and fishy.  They did file a police report and I'm in the process of getting that report.  I'm guessing the art of claiming damages were caused by a break-in (instead of by their own doing) is common practice.  Any tips to help protect myself as I evaluate the situation and look over the police report?

[Scott Weaner]

Ah, the old Laundry Bandit strikes again!