Why do they think they can paint ?

[Matthew Paul]

i went to fix a broken faucet today . Rented this older cottage to some young women . I get in there and they painted , designs on the walls , all the trim pink , and purple . They even painted 2 year old kitchen cabinets . So I fix the faucet , and brought in my camera and started taking pictures . I asked the  tenants why they painted without permission ?   Oh we didnt think you would mind and we wanted to make it feel like home .  ( It looks kinda cool but I could never rent it to a guy like that )   So I sit there after I take the pics and tell them Its already done ,  But I have to write you all up a bill for new cabinets and to repaint the whole place ,   " Why , its a law that you have to repaint anyway between tenants "    I tell them there is no such law .  " But it looks better "    To you and your friend .  "  But you have the security deposit "    yes , that will cover the painting when you move , the cabinets and labor is close to 3 grand .  Its considered damage right now and is considered additional rent .  

I tell them its done , you are here , I cant change it , but its against the lease , you pay so I am covered , the security deposit is to cover damages after you move out , not during your stay .  I will spread it out , the additional rent will be $ 400 a month . 

"But , we can repaint  when we leave "

Sorry , no that is against the lease . 

They werent too happy .  Neither was the father who is a cosigner but he understood