Security deposit questions

[Matt M.]

Ok guys, age old question regarding security deposit returns-

I’ve been around rentals for a long time. Normally reposting back to my clients regarding how a tenant left a house. 90% of them get nothing back either for leaving the house trashed, owed rent, etc.

This question is regarding one of my properties-

Tenant moved out, she was here 21 months, paid all rent. Obviously I can document the Cleanout from my Cleanout guy’s bill, I have no problem with normal wear and tear, but how do I charge for my time? Bagging trash, peeling stickers off walls/windows, a broken door, cleaning, etc. Can I charge back my normal hourly rate as a contractor? This was my first tenant in this house, and I had completely remodeled it, so it was mint when she moved in. House is in Pa.

[Marc Winter]

@Matt M., if it does end up in court, which I find is less than 5% of the time, you will probably lose on your time. However, if you are a contractor and you have an LLC or Corporation, you can bill under that name and you'll normally get no arguments.

Good luck.