After the decline of the section 8 rental I spoke to my broker and she told me section 8 attracts low quality tenants who may damage your home.

The property withstood the '89 earthquake, had some damage mainly due to trees, I think, in the'83 storm, and has a pretty decent retaining wall thats tied back well.

For those that have a tenant repair fee (like $100 noted above), how do you keep a handle on the 'Jack of all trades' or a 'friend of a friend who is a 'plumber' that the tenant may hire and may cause more damage in the long run?.

Remarkably, the fire burned for over 20 minutes in the dryer without causing fire damage to any of contents of the laundry room or the rest of the house (and only minimal smoke damage).

They had a falling out over a new roof last year so she wants to get out of it so it doesn't damage the relationship.  

The bad news is that she would never qualify financially...I can give details if anyone needs them, but for the moment let's just say that she is very young and has already done damage to her credit report, AND she was unemployed when she filled out the application.

I give them a week to find out any problems they might have, but I make it clear to them that I will either fix the problems or note it as "previous damage" on their report with respect to their damage deposit.When there is a dispute, I often try and work out a solution.

If the carpet has already been damaged I believe you can proceed against him for the damages now. 

Tenant is charged a $250 fee and SD is returned minus the fee and any damage. 

Well, like everyone said; don't do deals this way.I mean I would still inspect the property for damages and hold back $ if needed for repairs.