Tenant replaced fixtures and they don't match existing decor

[Robin Ryan]

Hello,  My long-term tenants replaced one of my set of matching ceiling lights with a style they prefer.  They discarded my contemporary style light, which was a match for the light in an adjacent room and they installed an "antique style" of their choice.   Now they have moved out and I would like to replace their antique style with a contemporary one.  The lease says they can not make any alterations without approval, but they made many alterations.  Can I charge them for the cost of replacing their antique light with a matching light?  Thank you!

[Michele Fischer]

Yes, that seems appropriate.  It would be ideal for them to ask and you to tell them that they need to provide you the old fixtures.  I'm assuming you were not aware of this before move out so did not have a chance to discuss with them.  I'd find something similar to what you had and charge them for the cost of the fixture and installation.  Take lots of photos to show that this is not a petty preference on your part, but something that impacts the marketability.