Are you a landlord dealing with destructive or angry tenants? Are your tenants damaging your property because they are mad about eviction notices or trying to seek revenge on you by breaking and stealing from the property? This type of incident can cost landlords hundreds to thousands of dollars, and here is how they should handle these tenants.
Get estimates for the repairs from experts and keep a copy of all the quotes. You’ll want to start recouping money by renting the apartment back out immediately, so getting the place back into shape is a priority.
Before making any repairs, make sure you’ve taken pictures and videos of the place to be able to use in court later. It will help if you’ve got date and time stamps on them.
Most likely you’ve collected a security deposit from the tenant upon move in. Check the laws of your state, but most like you’ll be able to use their security deposit for damages. Even though the damage will most likely exceed their deposit, you will be required to send them an itemized list of cost deduction that took place and for what repairs.
Depending on state laws, you’ll most likely have to notify the tenant that while the security deposit was used for some repairs, you’ll be requiring the remainder or will begin legal action.
Reports of damage should be done through the police department. If items were stolen, they may conduct a criminal case, but if not, it doesn’t guarantee an arrest or criminal charges. Police are not as likely to charge for criminal mischief unless illegal activity took place in the property.
You can get an attorney and seek restitution in civil court, but results won’t always guarantee you will recover your money. Finally, try contacting your insurance to see the cost of repairs would be covered. They’ll need the police report to help you.
While it can be a tough situation for landlords, be aware of the proper steps to take when you have a destructive tenant.