Time to get a new PM if you're using one that is too scared to screen your tenants properly for you @Andrew S.

They will screen you before sending you applications.  

You can take screen captures. so a visual identity is on record.

Just be sure to screen them and collect an additional deposit (state laws vary).

There are lots of options for free property management software that will help you with free online rental applications, tenant screening, and marketing!

Unfortunately these situations happen, but with proper future tenant screening, you can lessen your future risk.

Screening your tenants thoroughly though is a factor even when talking about a recession.  

We charged tenant for remaining life of carpet using the 2-year old receipt, which, along with other damages like screens, siding damage, etc., ate up the whole security deposit, anyway. 

If you bought a TV that you use to watch the highly educational programs on HGTV - then it's a stretch, at best.I doubt that your $12k rental business needed $20k of some business-only equipment.If you bought something that is only partially used for business, like an iPhone or power tools - then you can only deduct the business portion (percentage) of such equipment.

In that case you are just going to cause animosity when none existed because the upstairs will resent the landlord being called.I am sure to screen properly and rent to grown-ups and personally I don’t desire involving myself in drama like other landlords, be they real or pretend.