Who is responsible for this mess?

[Ouman You]

Hi guys,

A tenant just informed us that there is some mold in the unit...apparently there was a leak for almost three years when it rains. On top of that the kitchen sink and pipes are clogged with cooking oils and grease. Do we have to swallow the repairs, or should we document this, so we don't get sued for the mold build up?

[Michael Peters]

Where the tenants aware of the roof issue and just now reported it?  If so I would charge them at least a portion of the expense for not upholding their part of the lease agreement to maintain the property and notify you of issues in a timely manner.  Get the leak fixed asap.  Replace any damaged areas and killz over the rest.  Then worry about what the tenant potentially owes.

I would definitely charge the tenants for the plumbing issue but it would depend on how your lease spells out these types of negligence or damage.  Cost to bore out the drain will mostly likely be under $200.