May I Deduct the Cost of Installation of Appliance from Security?

[Christine Swaidan]

Hi All,

Replaced a damaged OTR microwave and will be charging tenants a portion of the cost. May I charge them for the cost of installing the new appliance?

[Frank Gucciardo]

If it's in your lease that they are responsible for damaged items, then yes you should charge them. You should not just deduct it from the security though. That money is there to hold them responsible for the condition of the property until they leave.

I'm assuming they are still in the property.

[Christine Swaidan]

Thanks, @Frank Gucciardo. No they are gone. I'm just processing their security deposit return now. So I will prorate the cost of the microwave (not sure how many years yet) but I can charge the full amount for the install of the new one?

[Thomas S.]

You may charge for the instillation with the condition that it be installed by a contractor. A landlords time is worth zero.

[Christine Swaidan]

Thanks, @Thomas S.