All Forum Posts by: Lana LeMay

I know there are a few options that replace collecting a traditional security deposit. Is anyone familiar with these and would you recommend them? I currently charge deposits that are $50 less than the rent if it rents for $1000 or less and $100 less than the rent if it rents for more than $1000.

I wish we could separate the lines, and in some places we can. However, one property I have is an 18 unit apartment complex on a slab. After several man hours, they retrieved lots of wipes from the drains. I charged that tenant. I just have some difficulty deciding what/ how to charge sometimes. An example would be: Some things are often not cleaned when a tenant moves out. However, since the unit is made more dirty by repairs, sanding, etc, we would have to clean it anyway. I've seen lists that have $$ attached to certain tasks like cleaning ovens, refrigerators, etc. They may also have specific amounts for changing out drip pans, light bulbs, and blinds. 

I actually have a camera, but it's only on a 6 foot line. We have tried to use that before, but at least one time the repairman didn't get what we were doing and poured strong acid into the drain before we could get the camera down it.

I am  trying to crack down on charging tenants for damages they cause (or allow). I have two primary questions:

1) Do most of you charge actual expenses, or do you have a chart that lists common damages with an expense attached? If you charge actual expenses, how do you determine the expense if multiple repairs were made (as in a vacancy) and some were not tenant related?

2) How do you prove they caused the problem when it's not straightforward? Ex: We have a duplex where the kitchen drains are tied together. We've had a backup due to grease more than once. Both tenants deny it, but we "know" where it's coming from. Also, I handle a small, 18 unit apartment complex where some drains are tied together. We can assume the smokers are putting the cigarette butts in the drains and the wipes are coming from the parents, but people always want to argue that you can't prove any of that.