Carpet is Black and there are Holes in the Walls

[Troy Luster]

Hello BP,

I've not had this issue with any of my rentals (knock on wood).  This property was a duplex I was thinking of purchasing.  The unit is about 1000 sq ft of carpet.  The carpet has to be replaced because it is black with stains.  Let's assume the carpet was new or like new when the tenant moved in.  Let's also assume the tenant has 7 months left on their lease.  What are the options the owner has?  Replacing the carpet is probably not a good idea.  With other minor wear/tear the $700 deposit is not going to cover it.  

[Joe Scaparra]

@Troy LusterI think your asking should you demand remedy of tenant caused damages before they move out.  Absolutely, otherwise you will only have the deposit to cover the loss and there will be little incentive for the tenant to leave the duplex clean if he thinks he is not getting the deposit back anyway.   I would attempt to collect the cost of the carpet and either wait till he moves out to replace it or put in a carpet substitute, tile, vinyl or laminate or install wile he is there.