To protect ourselves, we state this in the lease, include the paint name and serial number and put a clause that if the paint job isn’t as good as when they leased the unit, we charge a repainting fee.

Property 3: Newly built in Nov. 2012, 0 down VA loan, 3.25% at 30 years, purchase at 122,400. currently around 105k balance. very minimal repairs on this home, have also not had to repaint (it has flat paint too and is on the third tenant) and no carpet changes either.

I never charged for normal wear and tear like holes in the walls from hanging pictures, and we didn't charge for repainting. 

., most likely.What I think I'd do, though, is charge them your time at a reasonable hourly rate for the time to clean it up, and any other money you spend on it - if you hire someone to re-paint the driveway, etc.Then, if the tenant sends you a demand letter or files in small claims court, you can deal with that - if it happens.I think the main thing is to be sure and meet the deadline for sending the tenant the itemization of deductions from their deposit - on time.And, if they disagree with your decisions, you can then negotiate, or see them in court.Most tenants don't sue.  

Every wall had to be repainted (not sure how they got so dirty, stained and scratched).

However, the very same day we signed the lease and I handed them the keys, they asked if I could re-paint some of the walls to a different color and change out the closet doors to mirrored doors.  

And, they will be worried about whether or not you'll really have it clean, or will really repaint it or whatever you say you'll do - that many landlords don't actually do - which many of them will have already experienced and be worried about.It's just really better all the way around, to wait until you have a unit that is show-ready - vacant and ready to go.  

Kitchen molding repair/repaint and replace - $23.00.It does not matter if it was scratched by a service animal, a pet, a comfort animal, a nurse or uncle Louie.

Then if they don't repaint to the original their security deposit pays for the restoration.

It is impossible to keep clean and you will be repainting with every tenant turnover.