Security Dep - Repair Timeframe

[Warren Lance Barber]

I can't find a clear answer to this. I am in NC. I have 30 days to return my tenant's security deposit or itemized list of deductions. In this case, I won't be returning any due to damaged hardwood floors. I have had two estimates, waiting on a third, but all are more than the deposit.

My question is, how long do I have to actually do the repairs? NC law says nothing that I have found, just to provide the list and either receipts or estimates. The contractors I have spoken with can't start for 2 to 3 weeks. Then the work itself is several days. The polyurethane doesn't even fully cure for 30 days and you have to be very careful on them during that time. I have people interested in renting now and I don't want to lose more rent. I fully intend to have the repairs done. It would be great if I could wait until the next tenants are out and I can get the flooring people in as soon as they move out.

Thank you for any responses.