Advice needed for tenant moving out with property damages?

Advice needed for tenant moving out with property damages?

by Readers Question

Guest Author

0:01 AM, 27th June 2024, About 5 days ago 6

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Hi, if you have seen my previous posts you’ll know my experience with a bad tenant with my very first BTL has been horrendous! Please see post here >> https://www.property118.com/who-pays-for-damaged-door-after-police-welfare-call/comment-page-3/#comments

The tenant has requested an early release to secure a larger property, but there are still unresolved property damages. My confidence in the agent is low, and the damages need to be rectified.

Can 118 readers advise on how to handle this situation, including the deposit and check-out inventory? I need to ensure everything is handled properly and securely.

Thank you,

Alison


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Comments

Michael Booth

16:01 PM, 28th June 2024, About 3 days ago

Any damage other than the wear and tear can be claimed and taken out of the deposit, inform the tenant to what damage and cost to replace or repair ask do they wish to pay or it will be taken out of the deposit.

CP

16:59 PM, 28th June 2024, About 3 days ago

So, I have just gone through this with my tenant, where we had a number of areas/items damaged. He denied them.
The deposit would not cover the whole lot in fact was shy by a lot. The agent was happy to settle low figure.
I itemised the damaged, where possible with photos from past audit and new and attached cost for each item.
The agent mentioned I needed to be aware of wear and tear, which I had no problems with, I had crayon marks all over the walls in the front room and hallway and bedroom, plaster damaged, shower door disappeared, still not found 🙂 radiator value broken off, plus they had to pay rent yet. (the agent will try and wrap everything into the deposit, to make it easy for themselves)

Said to the agent if not paid will pass this to my solicitor and they/tenant can deal with him direct etc.

Suffice to say the tenant made payment, well half of the payment for damages.

It is not easy but as mentioned above it how far you are willing to take this. LL always end up with costs unfortunately as tenants tend to be difficult.

Hope at least this gives some support.

Alison Clark

10:20 AM, 29th June 2024, About 2 days ago

Reply to the comment left by Michael Booth at 28/06/2024 - 16:01
Thank you Michael. I will do as you advised. It will be a difficult conversation I’m sure. Tenant is direct and confrontational, especially when discussing costs. He still hasn’t paid a (rapid response invoice, following the welfare, Police forced entry) he was inside the property, thankfully this invoice is in the tenants name, he showed me the invoice. I just hope once he leaves the company do not pursue me for the bill (£230 to secure the door) thank you.

Alison Clark

11:51 AM, 29th June 2024, About 2 days ago

Reply to the comment left by CP at 28/06/2024 - 16:59
Hi CP. I’m pleased this is now resolved for you. Sounds like the agent would have accepted the low figure.

I’m expecting to incur some costs for sure, but hopefully the tenant will contribute something.

I’m more than happy to release him early from the fixed term. Tenant hasn’t given any notice as yet and I’ve not discussed the early released with the agent (I’m fully managed) which I plan to do. I’m just wondering about the following;

If I receive a reference request from a LL. Rent has always been paid, but Ive had so many issues with the tenant. I’m unsure how to respond without jeopardising my own position?

Should I agree the release date after the inventory checkout? The inventory is expensive, £180. Or do a prelim check with agent first?

There will be letting admin charges to release the tenant early and if there is a deposit dispute.

Thank you.

CP

18:03 PM, 30th June 2024, About A day ago

Hi Alison

Are your required to provide reference anyway. I have not had that in my case.

Not sure you can have a check out report before the day the tenant leaves, its always carried out by a 3rd party after they move out by the agent.

As mentioned above its how you want to do this.

Alison Clark

19:45 PM, 30th June 2024, About A day ago

Reply to the comment left by CP at 30/06/2024 - 18:03
Hi CP thank you. I’m not sure regarding the reference. It was just something I wished to be prepared for.

Yes thanks the inventory will be independent. (same clerk as check in.) I’ve been advised to say my agreement in writing for the surrender will be after the inventory and any deductions from the deposit are agreed and in my possession. I’m a little confused, want to get it right and be ready if/when the tenant makes an official request and provides the earl release date he wishes to terminate the fixed term.

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