Deposit deductions rekeying, holes in ceiling, flooring

[Luke H.]

Hello all,

Tenants have left and I wanted to know if I could deduction from deposit for re-keying locks? I ask because I have 5 doors with locks.   I looked at the Texas Rental Handbook, but it doesn't say if I could charge. 

Second, tenants drilled holes in living room ceiling to hang their TV screen, I have to get a painter to patch that up is that deduction?

Third, some of my hardwood floor in living room is damaged. Looks like water damage. On the move in condition form they didn't mark it and I don't remember it being that way (2 years ago). Otherwise the floor look brand new. Could that be a deduction?

Thank you for your advice.

[Greg Scott]

Changing the locks is not tenant-related damage and (it is my understanding that Texas law requires the landlord to change the locks.)  So, no, you should not charge for that.   Consider installing Quickset locks that can be reprogrammed instantly.  That will reduce your turn costs

The other items are tenant damage and not normal wear & tear.