Keeping Ohio Security Deposit

[Jacob G.]

Hello all,
I have a tenant of about 4 years moving out of a single family home next week that has quite a bit of issues. The home was perfect upon move in, now it appears all carpet will need replaced, all walls painted, serious deep cleaning everywhere(It's disgusting), appliances have not been cleaned ever, kitchen cabinets may need refinished, mini blinds replaced, etc.

My question is how much deposit should be kept for all of these issues. Our cost will far exceed the deposit but am not sure what all she is liable for and I assume going after her for more could backfire in court once they get into life of carpet, wear and tear, etc. The home does smeel of smoke, especially in the downstairs living room(that was turned into her bedroom). I have heard that is grounds for keeping deposit for painting and carpet since the smell can't be removed. What proof woudl you reccomend for the smoke smell? Ionly see an ashtray and butts in the attached garage right outside that room.

Just looking for general advice and what to watch out for to avoid any issues. Thanks for any advice!

[Roy N.]

Jacob G.

I will admit ignorance to rental laws in Ohio, but the need to paint and replace carpets after a 4-yr tenancy would be deemed "normal wear and tear" here.

That said, if your lease was very clear that smoking was not permitted, you may be able to make some claim for additional work required to remediate from the smoking {we've had to replace drywall before}.

As for the filth, hiring a cleaning service to clean the property and appliances should be a something you can claim. Refinishing the cabinets may also qualify if you can demonstrate their condition is beyond normal wear.