Move-out damage negotiations

[Chris Dougherty]

After seven years of living here, I'm relocating. In the next few weeks, the landlord will hit me with what she feels is an appropriate amount for damage.

Assuming she tries to exceed my $1,950 deposit, here is my plan:

-calculate the total sqft of stains on the carpet in relation to total sqft and get a percentage (in decimal form).
-apply percentage to quoted repair cost and offer that amount

Ex: 3sqft of stains in a 200sqft room = 1.5% of damage

Quoted repair of $1500 x 1.5% = $22.50 from me

I don't believe I'm responsible for recarpeting everything for such little damage. Rounding up like that is not in my lease.

The same basic math could be used for abnormal issues with paint, or anything else for that matter.

When you're dealing with a 3200sqft house, splitting the damage from the wear and tear is necessary. Gradual deterioration or aging of anything is not my priority - only stains, scuffs, holes, tears, and excessive damage caused by my fault or negligence.

I realize playing hardball with this landlord my lead us to court, but I'm not worried about the judge telling me it's my job to make sure everything matches.

Any thoughts?