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Updated over 5 years ago,
Can I keep deposit for Breach of Lease due to pets?
I know the typical approach to replacing carpet is to prorate it based on life of carpet. In this case, the tenant had 2 unauthorized pets in the house (a cat and a wild Crow -yes a wild crow), in addition to 3 authorized pets. The carpet was completely destroyed by urine and general pet odor. They were very unclean and the house was completely neglected - looked as though the carpet was never vacuumed in 3 years; heavy grease and grime everywhere; gobs of pet hair corroding vent covers. They hired cleaners, but it wasn't sufficient. The odor in the house is nauseating. I've had the entire interior painted and carpet is being replaced. I am not charging them for painting of course. I may also have to clean HVAC ducts if the odor is lingering there.
Can I charge them any part of the HVAC cleaning? ( i have no proof the ducts have ever been cleaned. The home is 19 yrs old.)
Can I keep the whole deposit since they violated the pet policy which led to all the damage?
Can I add any charges for loss of use/ inability to rent the house until carpet can be installed?
I sincerely appreciate the help!