Yulia,You could possibly consider a gift card of a nice amount that may be well received.

Assuming they planned on splitting the funds between these people anyways as a gift, what would be the best and legal route to go?

If you are so worried about send them a letter and include a $100 gift card to show your appreciation. 3% of 1500 is $45.

Last, kindly ask them to repair the damages when they have a moment as it would mean a lot to you and you'd do the same for them if the situation was reversed.Contained within your handwritten note letting them know rent will be increased and the kind request to perform the repair, insert a $100 gift card.

What gifts do you give them?

As for most of the rest of the posts on this thread - I agree, it's going to be a tough road for all the folks who have enjoyed the market gift of the past several years. 

The resources and encouragement he's given me and others is a priceless gift that many other successful investors just can't or won't do.

You can't go wrong by taking them water, rent discount and maybe even a gift card for the inconvenience. 

That paid off rental is a gift that keeps on giving.

Giving my son's roommate three months but that's a gift to son who doesn't want another roommate.