How do you handle malicious damage to property by tenants?

[Zachary Cura]

Whenever you rent out to tenants, you always run the risk of them damaging the property no matter how trustworthy they seem at first glance. What are best practices for handling such a situation to make it as smooth and painless as possible?

[Colleen F.]

If there is something they are doing that is damaging the property send them a lease violation (cure or quit) for it right away. Sometimes you have to tell people things you think they'd know. No you can't hang motors from trees. No digging up the yard is not allowed. No a workroom (saws/lathes, spray paint)in the bedroom is not an acceptable use.  No you can't park the motorcycle in the living room. Bill for damages on an ongoing basis.