Plumbing issues caused by tenant- Reimbursement

[April Benard]

I recently had to pay a $175 plumbing bill (a child's tooth brush was flushed down the toilet). 

The tenants are given a welcome packet stating the rules for issues caused by tenant negligence, so they are very aware of the upcoming cost.

How should I setup reimbursement? Have the tenants (tenants are Section 8 voucher recipients) pay now or take the amount from the deposit. I have saved the pictures and receipts in their file. 

Also, does anyone have a sample letter I can provide to the tenant regarding the upcoming fee? 

[Account Closed]

Dear Tenant (enter tenants name)

Per your lease agreement I am enclosing a bill for $175.00 and a copy of the Plumbers Receipt, for damages done by a child's tooth brush being flushed down the toilet.  (A copy of this bill will also be sent to your Case Worker as well)

Sincerely

Your name

Now if Section 8 doesn't reimburse you for this bill (which they should since you have it in the Lease Agreement) then you will contact the tenant once again, and state the reason why Section 8 won't reimburse you for the bill, and give the tenant a deadline of when this bill is due, and if not paid, you will file a Money Judgment suit in your local courts.

Nancy Neville